The 10 'Commitments' of Networking

• The information in this article is available as a keynote called "The 10 Commitments of Networking." An expanded version, including information in the article, "Networkings' Top Ten Hot Ideas!" and many more networking ideas are available as Larry's most popular three hour business seminar, "Networking: Making the Right Connections"

To begin, let's look at a carefully worded definition of business networking. . .

Networking is. . . using your creative talents to help others achieve their goals as you cultivate a network of people strategically positioned to support you in your goals. . . expecting nothing in return! ~ Larry James

Having a clear understanding of the definition of networking is a prerequisite for networking success. What you put out to the universe, always comes back to you! Disappointment may follow if you expect a return from the person to whom you have contributed. Networking is about building supportive personal and business relationships; it's consistently meeting new people and making new friends, sharing ideas and having lots of fun in the process!

Making a commitment is often most difficult when you are not sure of what you want to accomplish from your networking adventures. That is why the first commitment is so important.

Commitment #1 ~ Blueprint Your Life! No Purpose. No Goals. First, define your purpose. Know Purpose! Know Goals! Design your future by setting goals. Decide what you want.

Commitment #2 ~ Accept Responsibility! Be accountable to yourself for the choices you make and for the consequences of your actions.

Commitment #3~ Be Coachable! Listen for and be open to new ideas and suggestions others in your network of support may offer.

Commitment #4~ Show Up! Be places that count. Get involved in charitable and community projects. Be seen. Attend business and professional meetings. Networking opportunities are everywhere!

Commitment #5~ Be Yourself! Demonstrate your own authenticity. Be unto others as you would have them be unto you. Be real.

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Commitment #6~ Pay attention! Look for opportunity! Talk 20% of the time! Listen 80% of the time!

Commitment #7~ Contribute! Networking is contribution; it's helping others help themselves! Allow others to contribute to you!

Commitment #8~ Ask For What You Want! Tell people what you need. They can't read your mind.

Commitment #9~ Say "Thank You!" Express appreciation. Acknowledge others for their contribution to you. Be creative with your gratitude!

Commitment #10~ Stay Connected! Be in touch! Never forget the people in your network of support and never let them forget you!

Always remember the five most important words you can say while networking:

next: Networkings' Top Ten "Hot Ideas!"