554 - The Power of Networks

The relationships we build through networking last for years, even if we don't have contact with each other.

I don't remember when I joined BNI Global, but it was 13 or 14 years ago.

The jeweler in my BNI group in Port Huron, Michigan, Emily Wallace, sold more than jewelry. She had a lot of interesting items in her shop, like this thermal lunch tote.

We would go to the jewelry shop to browse at the china, handbags, and other specialty items she had for sale.

Sadly, Mosher's Jewelers closed in 2019, after 125 years in business.

Can you imagine owning a business that stays active for 125 years?

Even though the store in no longer there, I still have this wonderful tote that I use often today, especially in this Texas heat.

This bag has traveled the entire country and it holds fond memories of my time in BNI, which was where I began to learn about networking.

It is in networking groups that you begin to build professional trust with other business owners.

You won't do business with every person in the group but you learn how you can refer them to others.

The same goes for your business. Every 1-2-1 (face-to-face, in-person...) meeting is another opportunity to earn something new.

Notice, I didn't say, Make a sale!

You may book a trip through the group's travel agent, buy health products, get your A/C fixed, buy jewelry, order cakes or get insured from members of the group. (Don't order a cake from the insurance guy! He uses a cake mix)

You may get coaching from the business coach or refer them to someone you know who is looking for a coach.

You learn about the inside workings of each industry when you take the time to talk with other members.

What is one thing that you have purchased from someone in your network?