385 - Do you get value from networking?

The question may seem superfluous considering we are all here on LinkedIn a business networking site.

Some people are back to having live events and meeting locally.

Many others have found that networking online is just as effective.

For those who can do business nationwide, online networking is priceless.

As in anything you commit to, you've got to participate to get value from it.

Whether you join a fitness club or a Chamber of Commerce, nothing will happen unless you take part in it.

The same holds true for business networking. Active participation is the key to networking.

This morning, for the first time, I help a speed networking event.

Online networking allows everyone to stay in one place and still meet a lot of people.

The group was small enough that everyone was able to meet each other within the hour.

Everyone who participated got great value from it.

A typical speed networking event gives each person a few minutes to talk about themselves.

You know the drill, "Hi, my name is....blahblahblah"

Instead of giving everyone a few minutes to talk about themselves, I asked that everyone use their time to interview the other person.

That takes away the awkward feeling of having to talk about yourself.

It also allows the participants to ask direct questions and learn more in a short period of time.

Everyone expressed an interest in meeting one-to-one with the others.

That's when the magic happens!

Anyone who has been in a business networking group knows that one-to-ones are the best way to get to know other businesses on a deeper level.

The next Speed Networking event will take place in about 2 weeks. Stay Tuned...

Do you get value from networking?