The Net Worth of NetWorking

August 07, 2009

I have been told that I know a lot of people. My husband says that he can't take me anywhere without running into someone I know. My son has noted when we run into someone, "You know that person from... where?"

I love people.
I love relationship building.
However, maintaining relationships is far more enjoyable.

Do I enjoy speaking in public? No. But I enjoy the net results of putting myself out there.

Do I live for the opportunity to work a crowd as a stranger? Not one bit. But I do so because it's like a game of connecting the dots. And dots are just very small circles.

And speaking of circles... Our lives are made up of circles: family, church, work to name a few. Generally, any one of those may be our circle of safety. But as you step from one circle to another something wonderful begins to occur. You are connecting those dots.

I have been known to be a joiner. That keeps me connected, but oftentimes it leads to burnout.

But here is something for you to consider. Try attending an interesting forum, meeting or group. Let's say you have identified an organization, charity, cause or business network that is offering something of value. Drop in once and feel like you are outside of their circle; but give the group two or three more tries and you have now become a welcomed face and have added value to your life.

Rolladexes are a "thing of the past" piece of office e-quipment. And maybe folks are "just not that into" business cards as much as a couple of years ago... But every time you connect with someone via e-mail or in person they automatically become a contact that you must update in your data circle.

Connect, collect and then e-connect. That's right. You've made that connection outside of your comfort zone, you've collected a name and e-mail, now shoot off a quick e-greeting. Invite them to Facebook or twitter. And you have networked while increasing your social network and net worth.

And when someone calls or writes to you and says "we simply must get together sometime." Surprise that person and follow up. You will be in for a pleasant surprise, worthy of throwing out a bigger net.