What Is The Simplest Networking Strategy?

by JOHN MUSCARELLO / Follow Me on Twitter Here

Not all types of networking have to be labor intensive.

Networkers and job seekers are always asking themselves, “How can I build stronger relationships with the people already in my network?”

Connecting people in your network that can help each other is a great way to build stronger relationships and requires little effort (most of the time).

This weekend I had a huge “AHA” moment.

My dad’s friend, Phil, owns an eyeglass store in the town where my dad owns his restaurant.  Phil knew that our family had been without power for 10 days. My dad had mentioned that he was going to buy a generator so we can get the power back on in our house.

Phil came into my dad’s restaurant about an hour later and said, “I found a generator if you want it.  I called my friend who is an electrician and he has a generator.  He can deliver it to your house and install it in your house tonight.” My dad was thrilled and jumped at the opportunity to get power back in our house.

Successful networkers make themselves memorable by helping others solve problems.  Phil solved two problems in less than an hour.

  1. He found a generator for my family who has been without power for 10 days
  2. He helped his friend sell a generator to someone who would have never been a customer if it weren’t for him.

Do you know what the best part about connecting people in your network is?  It requires very little effort on your part.  The two parties you connect are doing all the work and you get all the credit.  How often does that happen?

I want you to do two things

  1. Connect two people in you network this week and tell me about your experience below.  Don’t over think this!  Phil connected a chef and an electrician.
  2. Share this article with a friend or colleague who will benefit from this advice.

Please share this article with your network if you find it helpful.

{ 4 comments… add one }

  • Deb Hileman

    Great information, and a perfect fit to my pay-it-forward thinking with networking. The best way to encourage people to do something for you is to do something for them.

    Reply
    • John Muscarello

      Hi Deb, thanks for the comment. Paying it forward is what networking is all about. I am glad that you enjoyed the article.

      Reply
  • Kevin Willett

    John, this is awesome advice and networking really is that simple you just need to keep your eyes and ears open.

    Reply
    • John

      Thanks for the comment Kevin.  Keeping your eyes are ears open at all times is extremely important when it comes to networking!

      Reply

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