Networking is a necessary part of any venture. Some people are blessed with the ability to master this art form and can naturally work a room. They flow easily in and out of social situations, introducing themselves, finding out others involvement in a cause or business and connecting. For those of us more introverted, networking becomes a struggle. Maybe your project is mind-blowing, but you clam up at the thought talking to strangers. You want to express yourself but shameless promotion scares you. You are not alone. Social phobia effects many Americans. Even if your aversion to networking does not debilitate you,… it is still intimidating to approach a person and turn on the Anthony Robbins’ power charm.
The following quote comes from Bob Burg, author and influential speaker. Bob has written many books including, “Gossip, ten pathways to eliminate it from your life and transform your soul,” “Winning Without Intimidation,” as well as books about Go-Giving. Go-giving focuses on winning by giving back instead of cut-throat competition. Burg advocates changing one’s business vision from GETTING to GIVING—putting others’ interests first and continually adding value to their lives, which he claims ultimately leads to unexpected returns.
Piecing together two of Burg’s quotes he says,
“Position yourself as a center of influence - the one who knows the movers and shakers. People will respond to that, and you'll soon become what you project.
The successful networkers I know, the ones receiving tons of referrals and FEELING truly happy about themselves, continually put the other person's NEEDS ahead of their own.”
