I’ve always cringed at the thought of networking events.
I rarely carry business cards, I dislike getting business cards thrust at me and I’m kind of (despite what you might think if you met my business persona) shy and would prefer to be home in my PJs and Ugg boots.
This week I was watching a seminar by photographer of women extraordinaire Sue Bryce and she said the best thing I’ve ever heard on the concept of networking.
Stop trying to “get”.
Don’t go into a networking event – or any form of networking for that matter – looking to get something. Instead, look to give.
In Sue’s words, think “How can I help you?”
She’s a photographer, so in her earlier days, she would look to offer her help –in photographing and in turn, because reciprocity just works that way, those people she photographed in PR or other local businesses would then, after loving their shots, want to refer her to their clients.
Remember: How can you help? Never, what can you get.
Kirsty Dunphey is the founder and director of Elephant Property. She is also an author, avid blogger and property investor.
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