So much of networking is about intent.
To explain, intent can be defined as: “Resolved or determined to do (something)”.
Both the words ‘resolved’ and ‘determined’ are important in the context of networking.
When we go into a networking situation – whether BNI or some other scenario – the outcomes for us and for others will be decided by our motives.
Are we there because we are resolved and determined to network and make business happen for ourselves and for others, or are we there:
1. To socialise? Good food, good company…
2. Out of habit? It’s part of our routine…
3. Because we have to be there?
Very often you may go in with networking intent, but everybody else seems laid back, or reserved or more interested in discussing the Rugby World Cup, for example.
Q: How do you focus the situation without being a total social miscreant?
A: You don’t. You go with the flow.
Relax, as long as you have intent everything is going to be fine.
You’re not there to make sales right now. You are there to network, even if nobody else is. So identify people you want to meet, engage them socially and at some stage plan to exchange business cards.
For now, be social, be friendly and engage. Break the ice. The business end can follow later in the week with a ‘dance’ or some other one-on-one meeting.
