The 1-2-3 of successful business networking

Have you ever gone to a networking event where you feel like you’re a big slab of sirloin, and there’s nothing but hungry saber-toothed tigers around you, waiting to pounce?

I was at one once and was astounded by how shamelessly some piranha-esque attendees mined nametags for titles and companies that could serve their needs, and avoided eye contact with anyone and everyone else who smiled their way.

These people just don’t get it. Please, please, please, don’t be one of them.

Contrary to popular belief, networking is not about immediate gratification OR desperately-seeking joint-venture partnerships.

Networking is about three things:

1. Forging casual relationships
2. Developing these relationships over time
3. Finding new, even fun ways to help others in their business, no strings attached

Now, maybe you’re wondering how any of those three things could possibly be worth your time investment. After all, you’re not in business to find a playground buddy. You’re in business to make money and/or bring more value to your company, one way or another.

But think about it.

When you’re looking to work with a professional, hire a contractor, or team up with another company, do you call the person who obnoxiously attacked you as you walked through the door of your last business mixer?

Or do you contact that nice man or woman who shared a valuable tip, listened to the story about your mother-in-law, or remembered to congratulate you on your most recent promotion – the one they saw in your industry’s trade pub and clipped out for you in case you missed it?

So next time you venture out to one of “those horrid biz things,” relax. Drop your agenda. Enjoy the scene.

And if you have a choice between approaching the stuffed shirt with the impressive title or exchanging banter with the introvert beside you with the unusual business name, give the introvert a try.

You never know what’s brewing within, how you may be able to help, who that person knows, or what kind of long-term relationship may develop along the way.

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