New Year’s is a time for what I call, “Wiping The Slate Clean”. Whatever has happened, or not happened, is in the past. Now is the time to take stock, begin anew, take it one step at a time, and take a deep breath. How’s that for cramming in as many cliche’s as I can in to one sentence?
I once had a neighbor who kept her Christmas lights up all year ’round. When asked “why?”, she simply responded, “Because I believe we should have the Christmas spirit all year long.” What a wonderful idea.
What does all this have to do with Networking?
Each networking event you attend is another chance to “wipe the slate clean”. In other words, you get another opportunity to meet new people, find out about them, and also grow the relationships with those you have already met. Networking affords you the opportunity to broaden your horizons, and grow as an individual and a professional, while being around a supportive group. It also brings about a new responsibility.
Simply talking about the weather every time you meet is not the way to build, and grow, your relationships with those you meet at networking meetings. Nor is it a time to sit in the corner, and tell yourself, “This is no good. No one is talking to me.” Networking is a time for asking new questions, and taking a new interest in what others do. Everyone’s business goes through cycles, changes, peaks and valleys, as well as innovations. Find out what’s new!
The explosion of the internet allows us the chance to read up on what is going on in other industries. When you see someone at a networking event, ask them if what we read is actually true – because, if it’s on the internet is HAS to be true – or “how far off the reservation” the reports and articles are. Social media, such as Twitter, allows us to “follow” each other.
As for me, I tweet, and re-tweet, what I feel is relevant in my industry. Whether someone else does or not is entirely up to them. You never know when you’ll get a “golden nugget” of information from what someone has tweeted. While I am not a big believer in Open Networking, I am going to try following, and being followed more, on Twitter for the New Year. It’s a great way to stay in touch.
Another way to stay connected to those you network with is to join Linked In groups, and participate in the discussions. What a great way to find out how others are feeling about a topic, and what they have to add.
Finally, I suggest reading.
Yes, the lost art of looking at words, on either a Kindle or the pages of a book. Don’t just read business books. Read books that interest you. You never know if someone else is a fan of an author you have just read, or if they share the same hobby.
I hope this sparks you to “wipe the slate clean” this year, and look at Networking in a new light from here on out. Please feel free to leave any comments, gripes, complaints, other ideas, etc..
If you, or someone you know, has any questions regarding Obamacare, Medicare, Life Insurance, or Long Term Care, please feel free to contact me. If you would like to follow me on Twitter, please do so at @TheBobLevine. I am a licensed Life/Health independent agent, covering the state of Georgia.
Bob LevineLegacy Financial Partners, LLC
404-551-5339
bob@legacyfinancialpartner.com
Legacy Financial Partner 