Effective Networking is an Art

Four people meeting for business lunchListen to learn … about the speaker and yourself.

By Steven E. Sacks
The NEW Fundamentals: Thriving in Disruption

There is no one right way to effectively network. You can join boards, attend conferences and sign onto various electronic forums, among other ways. No matter how you decide to get yourself “out there,” the critical factor is the approach you take. “How may I help you?” is the positive, proactive way to establish a relationship.

MORE: Avoid Last-Minute Deal Making | Five Common Negotiating Mistakes | Reaching for Authenticity in Client Service | Deadlines? Ha! Don’t Make Me Laugh | Organizational Change Starts and Ends with People | Busyness Isn’t the Same as Productivity
GoProCPA.comExclusively for PRO Members. Log in here or upgrade to PRO today.

You as the networker are seeking to build a relationship. If the other person or group benefits from your effort, think of it as an investment for the future. If you are looking for an immediate quid pro quo, it will become transparent to the other party. When you offer assistance, be authentic and sincere in your words and actions. Follow through on your promises.