Networking Know-How
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Networking Know-how
Networking is the lifeblood of any business. But it’s Called networking for a reason. You’ve got to get out there and put in concentrated time and effort to build your personal and industry contacts. Here’s how to network smart.
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For more networking know-how tips check out chapter five of The Mocha Manual to Turning Your Passion into Profit—How To Find & Grow Your Side Hustle in Any Economy (Amistad/ HarperCollins) by Kimberly Seals Allers on sale everywhere January 2009.
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Networking Know-how Networking is the lifeblood of any business. But it’s Called networking for a reason. You’ve got to get out there and put in concentrated time and effort to build your personal and industry contacts. Here’s how to network smart. You’ll be hard pressed to find anyone who won’t shout at the top of their lungs about the power of networking. Nothing beats personal connections, a referral, and expanding your Rolodex of contacts in your industry. There are two levels of networking. There’s your personal network and there are the trade shows and industry events you attend to build your industry network. Every woman I interviewed as part of the research for this book said that networking was an invaluable skill that saved their bacon many times. It is the life blood of any business. Many black women have a personality advantage in the networking game, we tend to be social creatures and somewhat outgoing. Plus, most of us have learned to master the real game—the white people game. Whether they are co-workers, school friends, or neighbors we have a unique experience with fitting in, understanding what makes someone ticks, and establishing some common ground. These are all valuable assets in playing the networking game. Let’s be clear, networking is not socializing. There is a social aspect to networking, but networking is results-oriented whether directly (I want something from you now!) or indirectly (I may want something from you later). There are strategies to execute, rules of engagement, and goals to be met, or else you’re just making calls and hanging out.
What to Do:
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