If you are running a business you have probably been told you need to network

After all if you are starting your own business then you need to meet people and the "easiest place" you can go to find and meet other people is networking.

Often it is just to get out of the house and actually meet and talk with some other adults. It can be lonely out there running your own business staring at a computer screen, waiting for that phone to ring.

Does Networking really work?

This is one of the biggest questions that is asked. You are told that you need to Network if you are in business, so, you go ahead rather blindly. You don't really know what you are doing, it can be a bit intimidating depending on which type of networking you attend... but, we just go along and try and fit in. By fit in, I mean do what others are doing.

So does it work? ... of course it does work, meeting other people is the only way to expand anything otherwise it's just you on your own. You'll need clients, suppliers, training, collaboration partners, advisors... but... the big question is...

What do you really need right now? Is it really networking? ... or is it a supportive environment in which to develop?

Is there a more effective way?

Most people start networking because they need to meet people as mentioned above... but although networking achieves this it isn't a every efficient method. Why? ... because you can waste a lot of time and spend a lot of money just meeting up, following a prescribed format, doing what the organisers want and not really moving you forward ... so let's explore...

What would be your Goals for networking?

Let's have a look at what you might want...

1. Be in a space where you are made to feel welcome and treated with respect from the outset
2. Not expected to perform or do anything that you are not happy to do
3. Be amongst people who are great at what they do, and are honest, trustworthy, fair, and go the extra mile (integrity built in)
4. Meet people who will spend time listening to you, and willingly signpost / connect you to people (see 3 above) who could help
5. Be with people who aren't looking to just make the next sale
6. Feel that you are being supported and helped... that people are on your side and want you to succeed
7. Being part of a group that looks for innovative ways to 'get things done' and keep costs to a minimum
8. Working proactively on removing obstacles and things that are holding you back
9. Learn new skills, as you need them... at sensible prices
10. Be able to draw from the collective experience, expertise and knowledge of those in the group