From the course: The Ultimate Guide to Professional Networking

Networks are made up of humans

From the course: The Ultimate Guide to Professional Networking

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Networks are made up of humans

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- Networking isn't abstract. It's not an object. We already know this, but because networking is fraught with so much baggage, it bears repeating nonetheless. Networking is about human connections. These folks are people just like you. The people in your tribe are not notches waiting to be marked on your belt. They're not a few more zeros to be added to your next bonus check. This is so important to remember that I want to give you four handy ways to ensure that you operate from a more humanistic mindset. The first way is to be empathetic. Continually put yourself in their position. Empathy is key. To build a lifelong network, you need to be thinking of how you would want to be approached. I don't like people approaching me in the front of a grocery store, so I would never do that, even if I believed in the cause and wanted to promote it. Next, apply the golden rule. Approach as you would like to be approached. This means you ask questions about them rather than making it all about you. Get to know more about people in a way that you'd want them to get to know you. Third, listen and remember, and remember names. I'm normally good at this, but I've also been guilty of forgetting someone I not only know, but I've interviewed on my podcast. That's embarrassing. Take a moment to remember how it feels when someone forgets who you are after you've already met. Never forget that the word network really means human beings, actual people. These people are worth remembering. They're part of a network that can last you a lifetime. Finally, follow appropriate boundaries. Until someone is in your clan or super family, your relationship with them is not about their marital status, kids or religion. Stick to the business side of things and avoid coming off like a creeper trying to get a date. Let the more personal aspects of people's lives reveal themselves organically over time. This is a place where many novices misstep. Steer clear of personal questions or anything that could be considered inappropriate. That's not networking. Always err on the side of caution and you'll give yourself the best chance to develop lifelong business contacts. Bring empathy to your network and then watch yourself build real and organic connections that deepen and bear fruit over time.

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