What Type of Networker Are You?
Networking is critical to the success of the growth of a small business. But
for many, networking is something that is a chore rather than a must-do
activity.
Understanding your networking personality and that of others can be the
key to your success. Attending functions around Australia I have noticed
that there are six distinct styles of networkers. Identifying these and who
you are dealing with can help you grow your business. Which one are
you?
The Socialite
Socialites love to attend events and can be relied upon to ‘lighten’ up any
occasion. They seek out the person standing at an event on their own and
include them in their conversations. These are great people to meet if you
are fearful of attending an event on your own. If you are a ‘socialite’ you
run the danger of spending too much time socialising and leave little time
for yourself to do the things you must do, often resulting in time pressure
and unfinished business. Time must become your friend not your enemy.
The Serial
The serial is known to rush around collecting cards and making quick
‘friends’. They rarely give you a chance to talk or catch your breath are a
whirlwind of information and have a database that reads like a business
who’s who directory. For those that don’t like attending events meeting
the ‘serial’ is their worst nightmare. The serial can appear overbearing and
pushy even though this is not usually the case. Serials – be aware not
everyone is on board as quick as you.
The Initiator
The initiator is well connected, has strong business relationships and will
connect you for a common purpose that benefits all. They see
opportunity and follow up immediately. Their ability to cut through the red
tape, clear the clutter of thinking and to take action assists in initiating
change, action and results.
They are resourceful and if they don’t know it someone they know will.
Take care to not waste their time they become frustrated easily with
people who do not follow through on what they say. They operate with a
‘what you see is what you get’ attitude.
The Occasional
Unfortunately this is the most common type of small business owner. They
network occasionally because they need to, either business is slow or they
feel a need to seek opinion, ideas, social interaction or business. Typically
they attend an event, make contacts, exchange business cards and not
follow up. They rarely get business from networking so see it as a last resort
rather than a must-do part of their business.
The Balanced
The balanced are consistent with their actions, follow up when they meet
people, see opportunities, connect people and give without expectation.
They understand the true value of networking. Importantly they plan their
networking activities, they know each day who they will call, each week
what events they will attend and who they will follow up with. They are
never short of business and are happy to refer their ‘networking friends’.
The Inactive
These people think ‘I really should’, networking is a waste of time, are
fearful people will reject them or they are just way too busy or lazy to
network. If this is you and you want to grow your small business…
NETWORK!!! It won’t kill you; in fact you never know what it might bring!
The most important aspect of small business growth is to network – create
connections, build relationships and follow up with the people you meet.
You will come across many people in your lifetime – even if they are not
useful to you at the time you never know what is around the corner or
who they know!
3 Responses to “What Type of Networker Are You?”
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To be a successful networker you have to be genuine. Anybody can pass on other people’s details and do “favours” but this can backfire and it only really works if the intention is to do it without expecting something in return.
The bonus is that the favour often will be returned anyway.
I completely agree that to be an effective networker, you need to be genuine. Luckily you can usually tell when someone isn’t genuine.
And you are right, it is always best to pass on details without expecting anything in return. Any thing on top of that is just a bonus.
There is nothing worse to me than a contrived or artificial networking environment. I have to agree that the best, most effective, and most comfortable networking is that which you do un-rehearsed and when you are just being yourself. If you are a genuine, interested person that is the best networking opportunity you could ever give your business.