The Networker #49: How To Enhance Your Networking Performance (Just Like Your Workouts)
It’s the start of January.
We’re all detoxing eating almonds and spinach.
Hitting the gym and getting in shape is top of mind for many.
Given the time of the year, I like to share a favourite networking analogy of mind.
Comparing the principles of going to the gym and networking have a lot in common.
Unfortunately, many networkers think there’s a quick win to be had from networking.
Spoiler: there’s no such thing.
Just like the “10 minute abs” you are sold too.
Thankfully, there are many lessons and applications used when working out you can employ to make your networking easier.
Stronger Relationships & Healthier Business
First, let’s consider the general similarities.
Working out helps you get stronger and improves your general fitness.
Networking does the same for your relationships and business.
Just as muscles require consistent effort to grow and get stronger, relationships need the same.
The require consistent and regular touch-points to nurture and build them. It’s not a one off thing.
Just like how you don’t gain big muscles with one workout.
Networking is also more than just gaining new business. It can also enhance the general health of your business.
Like the extra benefits working out offers, be it improved endurance, strength, or mental health.
Networking can lead to recommendations, finding talent, or discovering new suppliers, enhancing your business’s overall fitness.
Now onto some more practical applications.
Find Your Accountability Networker
Networking can be lonely.
An ‘accountability networker’ means you can motivate each other, share goals, and challenge one another.
Like a ‘gym buddy’, it ensures you stay committed to your networking and makes it more enjoyable too.
Think of that person you regularly see networking, or are attending similar events.
They could be your accountability networker in waiting (and it’s likely they’ll welcome some accountability too).
Nourish Your Network Outside the Event
It’s been said success in the gym is the result of 20% exercise, and 80% outside the gym.
The same can be applied to networking.
Think of your diet as what happens between events – what you’re doing to nourish and nurture those relationships.
In addition to a balanced diet supporting fitness, what you do before and after a workout is crucial too.
Much like networking if you treat events as the workout sessions.
You need to warm up – this could be researching the guest list and reaching out to other attendees.
Then, a cool down is afterwards. This is following up and connecting with those you meet.
Between the events is where the real magic happens.
The 12-4-1 Framework can help you with this.
Tap into Your Networking Personal Trainers
Networking organisations can serve as your personal trainers.
They can facilitate introductions, offer guidance and support. Whilst also offering another layer of accountability.
Use them.
It’s in their best interest that you are meeting the right people, as you’ll keep coming back.
But like a trainer, they won’t lift the weights for you.
You must do the heavy lifting and actively participate, just as you would at the gym.
Embrace the Membership Mentality
For even more added accountability, commit to a networking membership.
Like a gym membership, it will help ensure consistency, commitment, and value for your business.
You are more likely to show up, and want to show up, if you’re invested and have some skin in the game.
Typically, these come with ‘networking personal trainers’ too. Win win.
The Wrap Up
Networking, like going to the gym, requires an understanding that results take time.
And, like a workout face, it’s not always sexy.
It requires ‘unsexy’ traits; patience, discipline, organisation, consistency, and persistence.
That’s the reality if you want growth and real results from your networking.
However, you can be make it easier for yourself, by:
- Finding an accountability networker
- Creating a regular system to nurture your relationships
- Joining a supportive network – your networking personal trainers
- Committing to a membership – get some skin in the game
Now, flex those networking muscles and watch your business thrive!
If you’re looking for a supplement to enhance your networking, the Networkers Playbook is for you.
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