I learned the value of networking and building relationships at an early age. I grew up in a family where everyone seemed to know us, and we seemed to know everyone else. As a child I would watch in fascination as a virtual who’s who would stop by the house. Business would be transacted over a cup of coffee, during a party, or on a walk to the beach. Someone would need tickets to a sold out show, a sports game, and someone else would need a job etc. It seemed that the world of business was transacted in our house.
Over the holidays you could find politicians, doctors, prominent business people, the day laborer and cleaning lady socializing in our house. My grandparents and my mother are natural networkers and connectors. It didn’t matter who you were or what you did. If you needed something you came to see one of these people, a connection was made, a problem solved and, a business deal transacted. That was everyday life growing up in my family. The street ran both ways; as much as Mom, Grandma and Grandpa helped others, they also received the help they needed in return. It was a great lesson in giving, by building relationships first and having business follow.
My brothers and I are all natural networkers and connectors as well. Each of us having grown up in this environment, has built our careers by making connections, developing relationships and then building business. You’ll see the same types of parties at our houses as you would when we where growing up. Each one of us can put together a party for fifty people without really thinking about it; we’ve had a lot of practice.
As an adult I have been very blessed in my careers. I have networked my way across the country and back working with many people, adding to my connections, and having them offer to help others as well as myself. If I know, like and trust you, then some day you’ll here from me, out of the blue, to see how you are doing.
Networking has allowed me to build my business. How are you building yours?
