A Networking Must: Focus on How You Can Help

Networking is often misunderstood as merely a means of self-promotion or solicitation for job opportunities. However, the most successful networkers understand that the real power of networking lies not in what you gain, but in what you can offer. Focusing on how you can help others creates more meaningful relationships and, paradoxically, often leads to greater personal and professional rewards than the direct pursuit of assistance.

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The Benefits of a Giving Mindset

When you approach networking with a mindset focused on helping others, several benefits naturally follow:

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Builds Trust and Credibility

Offering help without an immediate expectation of return sets a foundation of trust and strengthens your credibility within your professional circle.

Establishes Stronger Connections

People remember those who aid them and are more likely to reciprocate in the future, deepening the relationship.

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Expands Your Influence

The more you help, the more your name circulates within networks, often with a positive note attached to your reputation.

Leads to Personal Satisfaction

Helping others can be inherently rewarding, enriching your own life and ensuring a more satisfying networking experience.

How to Network by Helping Others

Listen Actively

Before you can offer meaningful help, you need to understand what others really need. Engage in active listening when you meet new contacts to grasp what their challenges and goals are.

Actionable Tips:

• Ask open-ended questions.
• Pay attention to details.
• Show genuine interest and concern.

Offer Your Skills and Expertise

You have unique skills and experiences. Offering these as resources can be extremely beneficial to others.

Actionable Tips:

• Identify your unique strengths and think about how they can be utilized to assist others.
• Be ready to share simple tips or insights that could benefit someone else’s career or project.

Make Introductions

Connecting people within your network who have mutual interests or complementary skills is a powerful way to provide support.

Actionable Tips:

• Always ask permission before sharing someone’s contact information.
• Provide a brief introduction to explain why you think the connection would be mutually beneficial.

Share Opportunities

If you hear about a job opening, a speaking engagement, or any other opportunity that isn’t a fit for you but might suit someone else in your network, pass that information along.

Actionable Tips:

• Keep a mental or written note of your contacts’ interests and goals.
• Act as a bridge by informing relevant contacts about opportunities that align with their aspirations.

Provide Feedback and Encouragement

Constructive feedback can be invaluable, yet many are deprived of honest, helpful insights. Offering your feedback and encouragement can foster growth and confidence in others.

Actionable Tips:

• Be honest yet respectful when giving feedback.
• Focus on specific qualities or actions when offering praise.

Conclusion

In the realm of networking, the adage “give and you shall receive” holds particularly true. By focusing on how you can help others instead of what you can get out of the connections, you not only enrich others’ careers but inadvertently pave the way for new opportunities for yourself. Moreover, the fulfillment that comes from aiding fellow professionals creates a more enjoyable and lasting approach to building relationships in any field.

Written by Michael A Forman

Michael Forman is an acclaimed public speaker, corporate trainer, and author of the influential book Networking Unleashed. Recognized for his engaging style and actionable insights, Michael specializes in helping professionals and organizations harness the power of networking to achieve tangible results. His expertise has been featured in numerous publications, cementing his position as a leading authority in the field. Michael’s approach to networking is rooted in his ability to connect complex strategies with real-world applications, providing audiences with tools they can immediately implement for personal and professional growth. Plus, his coaching clients have implemented even more. Over the years, his thought-provoking presentations have driven significant outcomes for corporate profitability, inspiring teams across industries to excel. A proud Desert Storm veteran, Michael’s discipline, resilience, and leadership form the foundation of his impactful speaking. These qualities resonate in his work, whether he’s presenting at a corporate conference or conducting workshops on effective communication and relationship-building.