Successful Networking the ultimate guide Christopher Barrat TEDxAmRingSalon

Summary

Networking is a vital skill for future business success, yet many people struggle with it. The key to effective networking lies in the process of 'Know, Like, Trust, Buy,' which must be followed in order. Building genuine relationships through face-to-face interactions is crucial, and the ability to engage in active listening and help others is central to successful networking. By approaching open groups and being genuinely interested in others, individuals can grow their networks and increase their business opportunities. Ultimately, networking is about building trust and providing value, rather than focusing on immediate sales.

Takeaways

• 😀 Networking is a critical skill for future business success, as it fosters valuable relationships that can lead to new opportunities.
• 😀 Networking is not just about selling; it's about creating genuine, long-lasting connections that build trust over time.
• 😀 The 'Know, Like, Trust, Buy' framework is essential for successful networking. You must establish familiarity and trust before any business transactions happen.
• 😀 Networking requires face-to-face interaction to build strong, meaningful relationships, despite the convenience of online tools.
• 😀 Pay attention to group dynamics at networking events: singles, pairs, and threes, especially open groups, are key opportunities for connection.
• 😀 Approach networking with the mindset of 'be interested before being interesting' — listen to others and be fascinated by their stories.
• 😀 Avoid selling yourself immediately in networking situations. Instead, focus on building rapport and learning about others.
• 😀 Effective networking involves giving first, not just taking. Help others by offering your contacts or knowledge, and the benefits will come back to you.
• 😀 Observing and understanding group behavior can help you navigate networking events more effectively — seek open groups, especially those with diverse members.
• 😀 Be mindful of how you make others feel in networking situations. People remember how you make them feel, which can lead to stronger connections.
• 😀 Networking is a skill anyone can learn and improve upon with practice, and by following simple principles, you can become great at it over time.

Q & A

What is the most important commercial skill for the future according to the speaker?

The speaker emphasizes that networking is the most important commercial skill for the future, as it will continue to grow in significance in both professional and personal contexts.

Why does the speaker think networking is difficult for many people?

Networking is challenging for many because people often feel uncomfortable or lack confidence in initiating conversations with strangers. The speaker shares their own experience of initially struggling in a networking event despite being a seasoned sales professional.

What is the 'Know, Like, Trust, Buy' formula, and why is it important in networking?

The 'Know, Like, Trust, Buy' formula is a sequence where people must first know you, then like you, and finally trust you before they are willing to buy from you. This sequence is crucial because skipping steps will hinder building authentic relationships and successful networking.

What does the speaker mean by 'networking is a contact sport'?

By saying 'networking is a contact sport,' the speaker highlights the importance of face-to-face interactions in building connections, emphasizing that personal engagement is essential for forming real, meaningful relationships.

What advice does the speaker give about approaching groups at networking events?

The speaker advises targeting open groups, particularly those with at least one woman, as women are often more inclusive in networking. Avoid closed groups, as they are less likely to welcome newcomers.

How should someone behave when joining a group at a networking event?

When joining a group, the speaker recommends approaching with a simple greeting like 'Hi, may I join you?' and then remaining silent, listening, and letting others talk. This allows you to blend in naturally and get to know the group without immediately trying to sell yourself.

What is the significance of being interested before being interesting in networking?

Being interested before being interesting means focusing on learning about the other person and their interests before trying to present yourself or sell anything. This approach fosters better connections and makes others feel valued.

What was the key mistake made by the saleswoman in the speaker’s story?

The saleswoman's mistake was focusing too quickly on selling her cleaning services by handing out business cards and pitching her services, without first getting to know the speaker or understanding his needs. She missed an opportunity because she didn’t build rapport first.

What does the speaker mean by the phrase 'givers gain' in networking?

The phrase 'givers gain' means that by offering help, connections, or value to others, you will eventually benefit in return. Networking is about contributing to others first, and in the long run, this will come back to help you.

How does the speaker suggest you should view your network when meeting new people?

The speaker suggests that you should not only view the person you're speaking to as your potential connection but also consider everyone they know. Networking expands beyond the individual and includes their entire network, which can significantly increase your opportunities.