Networking in Business - Lets talk about it.

As soon as I entered University, we were told about the importance of networking. While counselors and professors have their own theories regarding business networking, you may want to apply these basic tips if you wish to stand out from the clutter.

What is networking about?

Networking is far more than shaking hands, introducing yourself and being seen. It's about presence, integrity and having a vision that transcends individuals' goals; bringing ideas and people together that would have otherwise never crossed paths.

In fact, the interesting thing about networking is that it is very much like sports. How? Simple. Some may think that you are out to score 93 goals or notch 216 points. But you're not after either; all you want is to win the Stanley Cup, proverbially speaking of course.

So you are willing to set up your teammates, both new and old, as many times as possible in order for them to shoot and score. Of course, one cannot help but get upset if the person you are setting up never shoots, let alone scores.

Is networking that straightforward? Of course not. In sports, the identity of your teammate and opponent is pretty much a black and white issue. But in business, it's gray at best. In fact, teammates can easily become opponents. In sports, teams announce deals; in business, an advert on Vanguard can come in the form of a stab in the back.

The other big difference is that athletes kill themselves all season for that year-end loot. Business is not about seasons. Yes, companies measure results in quarters and fiscal years, but a company is a going concern that will operate forever -- in theory.

Getting burned

Do people act selfishly? Well, not on purpose. By nature, human beings are out to survive... remember Darwin's "survival of the fittest"? Most people cannot fathom why you would want to help others out. What are you after? Their job? Their money? Their girl? All of the above of course -- no, no, none of that.

You have a greater idea. And you know that in order to get there, you need to set up as many people as possible. You could have the best story to tell, but unless you get that story out to as many people as possible, it's not much more than a fleeting thought.

So, if someone crosses you in business, what do you do? I can tell you that there is so much to accomplish in business, that holding grudges and remaining bitter is a recipe for self-destruction. You're better off simply chalking it up as an experience and a lesson learned -- and moving away.

The best part is if you ever run into these people again, they see you and wonder whether revenge is on your mind. But you should just go on your merry way and keep on living, and let others live. Your blasé attitude will shock them enough, trust me.

Manage your expectations

The main thing is that you are out to help others and yes, "make a name" for yourself. But before you get cocky and demand the moon in return, make sure that you have a track record and people's confidence. Otherwise, you are nothing but an empty promise.

As a result, if you want to earn a paycheck and punch out, then networking is not for you. But if you want to be a "mover and shaker," as they say, with business travel taking you around the world and a list of contacts as long as your arm, then understand that your cell phone will probably ring off the hook and your inbox will be jammed.

Best Regards,
Babs Oluwasegun