Networking: Love or Hate?

Today I had the most amazing morning talking to other business owners at a networking event.

I have not always enjoyed networking events though. When I first started out in business I used to dread going and would drag myself to them. If I had an excuse not to go I would use it, mainly because

(a) I had the wrong mindset, and

(b) my message was not clear on how I helped people and so I would stumble through my one minute introduction.

Since changing my mindset and being clear on how I help people I now love going to networking events, although I still choose them carefully. I only go to those that are attended by likeminded people and at a decent hour! I might be awake at 6am every morning but I refuse to talk to anyone until I have set my intention for the day, had my breakfast and a cup of coffee!

I have discovered the rewards are endless though. I now get the opportunity to catch up with some of my clients and friends. I also get the opportunity to develop a friendship with people I have either just met or those who I have met in the last few months. And recently I have been fortunate to receive the most amazing support for my books. But all this didn’t happen overnight. It took time to build connections and friendships which is why it helps to go regularly.

Key facts to know 

A networking event is NOT to sell, in the traditional sense.

• IT IS an opportunity to tell as many people about how you want to help people.
• IT IS about being clear about what you do for others.
• IT IS about listening to what everyone else does.
• IT IS about giving support.
• IT IS about asking for support.
• IT IS about finding the right networking event(s) where you are surrounded by likeminded people.
• IT IS an opportunity to develop long term friendships.

If you are looking for a fabulous networking event then I highly recommend the following:

• The Heartabiz Hub run by Alisoun Mackenzie. Every month there is an event in Edinburgh, UK and one Online. I am a member of the Heartabiz Hub and I highly recommend it. Sign up here
• No Ties Networking is also a fabulous event and they hold two coffee mornings and one lunch each month in Edinburgh. Find out more here
• Spiritual Coffee is also great for meeting lovely people once a month in Edinburgh. Find out more here

© Helen Monaghan