Episode 913: The #1 Rule to Networking

Summary

In this episode of the official BNI podcast, Tim Roberts and Priscilla Rice discuss the number one rule of networking: 'Perception is reality.' They emphasize how important the details of your behavior, presentation, and even online persona are in shaping others' perceptions of you, particularly in networking groups like BNI. Tim shares how complacency—whether in punctuality, attitude, or professionalism—can negatively impact your reputation and, by extension, your ability to receive referrals. The conversation offers valuable insights into maintaining a strong professional image both within and outside of BNI meetings.

Takeaways

• 😀 Perception is reality: Everything you do, say, and how you present yourself creates an impression that impacts networking and referral opportunities.
• 😀 Consistency in your actions matters: If you're always late or unprepared, people will perceive you as unreliable, which can affect referral opportunities.
• 😀 A high-quality referral is tied to trust: Giving a referral means trusting someone with your reputation, which should be guarded carefully.
• 😀 Complacency can be a risk: Getting too comfortable with people you network with can lead to carelessness in presenting yourself.
• 😀 Be mindful of how you appear in both professional settings and on social media: Your online presence can impact how others perceive you professionally.
• 😀 Networking isn’t just about what happens during meetings: Your actions outside of meetings—such as at social events or on social media—also shape perceptions.
• 😀 Your attitude can influence your success: People won’t do business with you out of pity, so maintaining a positive attitude and preparedness is key.
• 😀 Dressing appropriately for your profession is important: Even if you’re in a professional setting with colleagues who know you, your appearance still affects how others perceive you.
• 😀 Small details matter: Whether it’s how early you show up or how well you prepare, every detail plays a role in how you're perceived and how likely you are to receive referrals.
• 😀 Networking is a continuous process: Your relationships and the way you present yourself outside of formal networking events are just as important as during them.

Q & A

What is the number one rule in networking, according to Tim Roberts?

The number one rule in networking is 'Perception is reality.' This means that everything you do, say, and how you present yourself can shape how others perceive you and can impact your ability to get referrals.

How does 'Perception is reality' affect networking and referrals?

Perception shapes how others see you, and in networking, this perception influences whether or not people are willing to trust you with their reputation when passing along a referral. If people perceive you negatively, they may hesitate to refer you, even if you are trustworthy.

Why is it important for BNI members to maintain consistency in how they present themselves?

Consistency in presentation helps avoid complacency, which can create negative perceptions. For instance, arriving late regularly or being unprepared could make others think you're unreliable, which can hinder your ability to receive quality referrals.

What are the potential consequences of complacency in networking?

Complacency can lead to negative perceptions that affect your professional relationships. This includes being late to meetings, dressing casually, or being unprepared, which can damage your reputation and reduce the chances of receiving referrals.

What is an example of how small details can influence perceptions in networking?

An example is showing up to networking meetings late with a coffee in hand. Even if this behavior doesn't reflect who you truly are, others might perceive you as someone who is consistently late, which could affect their willingness to refer you.

What role does attitude play in networking and referrals?

Your attitude affects how others perceive you and, consequently, whether they are willing to refer you. A negative attitude or constant complaints can create the perception that you're difficult to work with, which could harm your chances of getting referrals.

How does social media impact networking perceptions?

Social media activity can influence how others perceive you. If you post controversial or negative content, it can create a perception that you might not be professional or reliable, which can affect networking opportunities.

What advice does Tim Roberts give about networking events and social situations?

Tim advises that how you behave at social events or even how you act outside of networking meetings matters. Being mindful of your actions, whether online or offline, can have a significant impact on the perception others have of you.

How does dressing appropriately affect perceptions in networking?

Dressing appropriately for your profession and for networking meetings is crucial. For example, if someone initially dresses very professionally but later shows up in casual attire, it could create a perception of inconsistency or lack of seriousness, especially among newer members or visitors.

What does Tim Roberts suggest BNI members do to maintain a positive perception?

Tim suggests that members should continuously evaluate their actions, attitudes, and details like punctuality, preparation, and how they present themselves both in person and online. This self-awareness can help maintain a positive perception and improve networking results.