I’m one of those folks who talk to people every chance I get. Many of you who know me can confirm this! But you know what? I have a passion for it! I remember at a company that I once worked for that I was told by one person that I was not taking the job seriously—because I was too happy and joyful. Well, isn’t that a great note to leave on!

I realize that not everyone has this “gift”. I’ve learned that sometimes folks get intimidated by the setting– it’s something not familiar and they feel that they have little to no control over. Whatever your reason is, I would encourage you to find the right venue that matches with your style (Social Media is also a form of networking!). Remember, everyone is at that networking meeting for the same reason!  Sometimes, I’ll have client who says, “But Kevin, I don’t have time to network”. My response to them is—forgive me if I’m repeating myself—if over 80% of the jobs out there are gotten through networking,  then you don’t have the time NOT to be networking!

There is a secret to networking that I’m going to share with you. Are you ready? It’s something we do ALL THE TIME (that’s how easy it is)! Here’s the secret… simply naturally engage others in conversation and be ready for whatever may result! That’s it. Nothing complicated, folks! Let me give you an example. Recently, through networking, I ran into a person that I had not seen in about three years! Well, we spent quite a bit of time catching up on the families and jobs (yada, yada, yada), but then we focused on how we could be of benefit each other—we were at a networking event after all! It was (and will be for you!) a win-win for everyone!  After all, who doesn’t like catching up with an old friend? Better yet, who doesn’t like getting the inside scoop on a job because someone you know and enjoy talking with gave you a heads up?

Ready to get started networking but don’t know where to start? Give me a call or send me an e-mail. I’ll help you get talking to the right people!