[Karen]

How many people network, and build relationships with other companies / individuals?


Those who do, have you discovered the power that networking creates?

Those who don't, why not?

Karen

[jpomerenke]

What ive found to be the best when it comes to netwroking is networking with people that are gifted in stuff you are not. For example say you suck at doing graphics but you own a business online. Instead of outsourcing to a company to make them have your "netwrok friend" so them much cheaper. Down the road it works vice versa.... he may need help from you, etc.

[erock10]

I have found that these websites (forums) are really the best to get things accomplished in a cost benefit sense. A buddy of mine was desisgning a personal website for his online sports publication and needed a logo so he researched online and eventually wound up a forum for webdesigners where he actually did a contest and the winner (best logo) recieved $50. The logo turned out great and he got it for far cheaper than he would have if her were to have hired someone local

[jpomerenke]

Originally posted by erock10
I have found that these websites (forums) are really the best to get things accomplished in a cost benefit sense. A buddy of mine was desisgning a personal website for his online sports publication and needed a logo so he researched online and eventually wound up a forum for webdesigners where he actually did a contest and the winner (best logo) recieved $50. The logo turned out great and he got it for far cheaper than he would have if her were to have hired someone local

I had a kid from china do mine for 10 bucks. Its eaxactly what i wanted and i found the money under the couch

[Karen]

Wrong kind of networking.

I am talking about nothing more than expanding the circle of people you know. Meeting people, getting to know people, not because you need anything but just because of the endless possiblities that comes from knowing alot of people.

Karen

[Redbaron]

I have to say that almost everything I have done, people I have met and jobs I've had is a direct result of networking.

I believe very strongly that most people want to help you. All you have to do is ask. I have met some pretty incredible people this way; some have become part of my life this way. Make a phone call, ask someone to introduce you, or introduce yourself.

The latest case for me was meeting with Les Hewitt, author of "THe Power of Focus", great book by the way. His secretary told me he doesn't generally meet with people he doesn't know. I ended up having a two hour coffee with him. Great guy.

My friends often ask "how did you meet so and so" or "how did you get that job," my answer is usually the same. I called them up and said hello.

Whether it's a neighbor or the president of an Inc.500, most people are great and appreciate you taking an interest in them.

Bjorn

[Karen]

Originally posted by Redbaron

My friends often ask "how did you meet so and so" or "how did you get that job," my answer is usually the same. I called them up and said hello.
Bjorn

This is one that most people I know don't understand. In my opinion, it makes sense to deal with the people who have the power. When I need to contact someone of importance, I go ahead and contact them directly. I don't bother with the secretaries, not because they are not worth dealing with, but because they have to follow protocol.

Most people think that people of importance are out of reach, but they really aren't. Expanding your circle of contacts creates incredible situations that expose you to these people. The law of coincidence is at play here.

For example. Last week, I took my dog to the park. While I was there I ended up meeting and talking to the owner of a local boat dealership. If anyone reads site point, they may remember me asking 2 weeks ago about getting connected with boat dealers. Well, a simple trip to the park dropped that into my lap.

Another example. Last night I had a conference call (2 1/2 hours long mind you) with a lady who is knowledgeable in an area I am trying to learn. There were some other participants in this conference call, including a few famous people you all would know of. However, one of the participants lives in Hawaii which is a location I am actively researching for various projects. The famous people don't interest me, but the Hawaiian local does, and is now on my contact list.

Don't under estimate the power of networks.

Karen

*edited because I can't spell

[focusben]

The power of networking does indeed some amazing and wonderful things. I think it's all about learning a perspective about the world and other people and how they operate - as well as why they operate.

I find a lot of good-hearted people, but also a lot of "special" people. They come either way, and those who have a passion about what they do, no matter what it is with no limits, those are the people that get on my list of important people.

Some people, you can see right through and they don't have any kind of drive. Those who are hungry to win in *something* always have my support.