I recently attended a preview for an upcoming seminar. During the break, some attendees were busy ‘networking’. Why do I put networking in inverted comas?

It’s because, instead of networking, I would call it ‘net-forcing’. Why? These people, instead of gently asking about your background, they would just force their name cards on you, dominate the whole conversation about themselves, with no interest at all on you. After which, they move on to the next person.

I cringe the way these people ‘netforce’. What kind of impression are they leaving on people? No one likes to be sold upon, but everyone likes to buy.

In my honest opinion, these people should join BNI where here, members are taught the fine art of networking, make people remember you and refer business to you.

What is the definition of networking? It’s about connecting to different people, where they exchange background information, and possibly in future, have certain business alliance, direct or indirect(through each other’s database). Networking is NOT about selling your product/services to the person in front of you. It’s about educating the person about your background and business, and vice versa, and gently mentioning referral opportunities.

A great book which teaches the fine art of networking is by Dr Ivan Misner (Building Business by Referral). Do get a copy should you want to learn more.

Until then, remember to educate people about your business, and not to hard-sell during the networking event.

Have a great week ahead!

This article is written by Cindy Wong and is reproduced here with consent from the original author. To learn more about Cindy, here are her contact details:

Cindy Wong
BNI Uptown Lead Visitor Host
Impacting Lives, Through Healthy Lifestyle
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