CREATE YOUR OWN BIZ REFERRAL MAGIC

Let's face it...networking (a necessity for cultivating relationships) stinks. At least, the way most people approach it does. The sad part is, it doesn't have to. At least not when it's done RIGHT. BUT...far too many people are bouncing from group to group in search of potential clients or centers of influence like people are all their personal cash registers with limbs. You know the type... "I want, I need, I'm looking for..." Lacking sincerity in the pursuit of sales.

The funny thing is, the term NETWORKING doesn't even apply to human beings. It entails connecting computers, so if one goes down the others can still communicate. When it comes to people, forging relationships should be a straight-forward pursuit. The objective is crystal clear, right? Cultivate mutually beneficial relationships with others who share your interests, passions, values and preferred style of communication to accomplish shared goals. Done correctly, it's about engagement, caring for others, wanting to serve, and building trust.

So, why do so many people approach relationship-building with a lack of clarity on their desired outcomes? They don't have a formal written strategy, and pursue a selfish "what's in it for me?" mindset. On top of that, they sit back and wait for others to take the lead, schedule one-on-one's with them, are horrible at following up with people they meet for the first time, and fail to share? Their approach is like human molecule wars, bouncing into and off of others. Their mindset is to "go deep" in their reach, but "very shallow" in their relationship cultivation.

What if people stopped acting this way?

Rather then cultivate a network (intentional use of the word) with thousands of followers/connections, WHY NOT build a small TRIBE of others who share your values, beliefs and interests. Check out Seth Godin's "The Tribes We Lead" TED talk for inspiration. 

How do you accomplish relationship-building with complete strangers? I applied my 20+ years in marketing to develop (and coach) my 5-2-1 strategy. In the first few (5) seconds of meeting someone, lead with a great hook (your UVP synthesized to a powerful TAGLINE). then, spend a very brief amount of time (2 minutes max!) sharing your personal "why". Watch Simon Sinek TED Talk, START WITH WHY .

Then, ask them lots of questions. You should have researched them so you can ask probing questions based on their background, interests, hobbies, volunteer work, etc. The goal should be a follow up ONE hour (or thereabouts) deep dive getting acquainted session. When you attend networking groups as a guest, research members in advance so you can ask relevant questions about THEM. 

Not happy with the overload of superficial networking groups? Create your own. I've done it. Create a group with people you already know, and deliver value to Group members by facilitating introductions between them. 

Check out my YouTube video on how to cultivate relationships by NOT networking. While you're there drop a like, and be sure to subscribe.