Networking in 3 easy steps

Networking in 3 easy steps I am going to simplify networking for all the non-believers out there. We do it all the time, but dont really consider it networking. According to Websters, the definition of networking is the exchange of information. Thats it. Here are the 3 steps: 1) Ask a question or put information out there 2) Take action 3) Follow up Networking isnt always about us. Sometimes it is about helping others. There is no better feeling. Heres an example: I was delivering a workshop and found out that one of the participants worked at Channel 10. I asked her is she knew my friend who works there. She responded: Yes, we sit next to each other and I was in her wedding this summer. After chatting a bit longer I found out that my friends grandfather had just passed away. I then contacted in my network (my dad) so he could inform all of his friends. I also sent a note of sympathy to my friend. See, its not all about me. Its about nurturing relationships. Here is another extreme example. I say extreme because most people arent comfortable doing this for a variety of reasons. Deidre was visiting her dentist. The first question the dental hygenist asked (right as her fingers went in the mouth) was Whats new? Once the hygenists fingers were out of her mouth, Deidre responded: Well, I am a bit frustrated, Ive been sending my voiceover demo tape all over town and no one is calling me back. I really want a gig with a radio station. The dental hygenists eyes twinkled as she said, Deidre, run home after your appointment and get me your demo tape. Brother Wease is coming in this afternoon and I will give it to him. Deidre did and went on to be a special co-host with Brother Wease. I love telling stories of how networking works. It is about exchanging information, plain and simple.