Putting The Work In Networking

The next time you’re at an industry event ask yourself whether you’re networking or notworking.
A room full of people means countless opportunities to make connections, arrange meetings and sell your company’s capabilities.
It doesn’t mean standing in the corner inspecting your shoes or waiting for the waiter to pass by with another tray of nibbles.
A lot of people mistakenly think that an evening ‘networking’ is like catching up with friends over a drink.
It’s not.
It’s like pitching and speed-dating rolled into one.
It’s hard work, and if it’s not then you’re doing it wrong.
On the 6th Anniversary of his election to Governor its appropriate to mention Arnold Schwarzenegger.
When he first went to Hollywood with the dream of becoming an actor, the 240 pound former Mr Universe understood the importance of networking.
He treated it like any other job, he did it very day, he dressed for it, he arranged meetings, and made sure he was ready to talk himself up to anyone who could help him achieve his goal, he was relentless.
I think Arnold and I are similar in a lot of ways.
I’ll be back.