Networking is a productive activity. But to benefit the productivity to its full extent you should network the way you would organize other activities.
There is a difference between networking and selling. Networking might be familiar to selling, but it is different in the fact that sales is dedicated to a specific service (that you offer in this case). When you network you do not sell something, but you rather match. Networking is about exchanging information and knowledge. You could exchange information about (other) people, about you, or even about information and knowledge about specific topics.
The goal of networking is to find a match. And this always includes two sides: You and the group, or you and the other.
Think for this last example about dating someone, and you communicate about mutual interests. The better the match, the more of a chance that both agree in a next step.
So if networking is about matching, you should focus on moving in networks where your input is feasible to match.
If you enter a business network that is focused on information and contribution of specific knowledge and you are in for just knowing people and socializing, the match chances are poor.
If you enter a group or business network that is focused on referrals and your input is knowledge the chances are also minor.
Networking is possible at any time, but most networking events are not really productive. They are if you are focused.
© 2006 Hans Bool
Hans Bool is the founder of Astor White a traditional management consulting company that offers online management advice. Astor Online solves issues in hours what normally would take days. You can apply for a free demo account.
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