There is nothing better than networking. When you have a new project and need some advice or when you have an extra concert ticket, who are you going to call? A complete stranger or someone you know? Some people may grab the white pages just because they like to live bold, but most people will call someone in their network. Top business leaders know that the benefits of networking outweigh any other tool at their disposal. There is no equal to picking up the phone and calling a contact. After all, the power of networking has put presidents into office, raised billions to start new businesses, and even been used to find organ donors for someone in desperate need. As you access your network, the first person you call may not have the answers, but simply taking action is one step on the way to achieving your goals.
Think of using your network as a game of treasure hunt. As he works within his network, he reveals clues that help him find what he is ultimately looking for. It is very likely that your network is larger than you think too. Some statistics suggest that the average person knows about 250 people. Each of those people you know also knows 250 other people. This means that it is two steps away from 62,500 people and three steps away from 15,625,000 people. If you think it sounds too good to be true, you just thought it separates you from the people who master the perks of networking. He shakes his head and I just say “Wow, I’m connected to so many people!”
Imagine what could be in that network. You could find a new job, new clients, your ideal partner and even the ultimate recipe for chicken soup; all within a network that can be accessed through an inexpensive phone call or email. The power of such networks can also be divided into individual niches. It’s easy to see the benefits of networking in information technology circles. All those geeks love to chat about YOU, right? How about other common interest groups like sewing, horseback riding, or cooking? Social networking tools on the Internet make it even easier to connect with groups of like-minded people from all over the world. These groups form new networks based on the common connection of their passions. Before long, you may even think that being connected to 250 direct contacts is a very conservative estimate.
What then are the disadvantages of networking? You should expect that any such powerful tool can be used for both good and evil. Some people are network leeches. They will call you and shake you for leads and contacts. Don’t be that person. Lead the field with influence and integrity and send a signal to those web leeches to stay away. As you care for and nurture your own network, through positive actions and providing value to others, you will be amazed at how well that network cares for you.
