Networking...what is it about?

[Jim Browning]

Social networking has become for many a list of contacts. I suggest that you take it much farther. Offer to help others first, then wait for the help of others. It may not come to you in an exact form. They may send you business or help by way of another person without you knowing. It is not about keeping a list of who you helped, just helping others and "Paying it Forward."

Let me know if I can help you.

What is your opinion?

Jim

[Jim Sutton]

I agree and have been putting that idea into practice.

Jim Sutton

[Solveigh]

I'm still in the phase of making connections and learning the networking, slowly and step by step - and I'm not sure, if it is good to accept, have and search for "any" contact, or if I had to choose my contacts relating to my business?

I already learned that each contact could be of help for yourself, if you are willing to give your own help - whom ever and in which way ever (in advance, of course, whithout expecting a "payment")...

I were very grateful to receive your answer. Thank you so much...

[Mike Seidle]

I'm not much of a new age type of guy, but one of my friends who is once says, "the world works best when it is at a karma deficit."

-- Mike

[Paul Dube]

Networking is about building trust, relationships, and helping others. Everyone who interacts with other humans networks every day. You meet someone and begin to build a relationship. If someone moves into your neighborhood, most people are quick to pass on such information as the best pizza place nearby, the barber/beauty shop you use, the most trustworthy mechanic, etc.

If this person uses your recommendation and has a good experience, they begin to 'trust' you. They 'trust' your judgement and their opinion of you goes up. The more you help & your advice works for them, the more they 'trust' you.

In doing so, you happen to build 'social capital'. The best form of which is by 'accident' rather than 'on purpose' but either works. When you need something, the more social capital you have, the more likely you are of 'finding' it by those you've helped or those who simply 'saw' you helping others.

Regards,
Paul