There are no two ways about it, as Steven Covey said- “you’ve got to look at a relationship as a bank account”.
Are you depositting or are you only withdrawing? Most banks will not let you withdraw, but what you’ve deposited. Should it be any different with us humans? You say-you want to be in my network, you constantly ask me for information, seek assistance, help and access to my resources, yet the one time I look up-to you for information, you don’t have the time of day for me. You are not going to be a good networker ! Networking is not about creating the largest link list that you can, it’s about engaging with people, its about getting the right set of people around you, that you can learn from, or those where you can contribute in their learning. And that is the whole essence of relationship building! There are certain people in my network that I’ve never met, but over the last two years, I can guarantee you that we’ve exchanged mails, we’ve helped each-other out. We’ve in fact even reached a stage, when we’ve actually done a commercial transaction! Because, we were so comfortable doing non- commercial transactions, we trusted each other to for the commercial part too! You do not start out with the business plans, you start out with relationships ! Relationships in the real world are built on respect, admiration, empathy, a sense of belonging and care. its not any different on the net or the online world. The same rules apply. You have to respect the people in your network. You wouldn't say anything nasty to people you love, you wouldn't do the same to people you have never or will never meet in person. You also value privacy and personal space. I let you in and share things with you, that does not allow you to take that and use it anyway you like. The tolerance for personal space abuse is very very low in the virtual world and you would be well advised to ensure that it is respected. A simple thumb rule might help (I am a big fan of thumb rules, click here to know why) - treat everyone on the net like you will meet them in the evening. P.S. This is the fourth part of the series 'Eight Habits of a Highly Effective Networkers'. There are 10 parts. Click here to go to the start of the series> Everyday, you will receive 1 new habit (there are 8, this was the 3rd) of an Effective Networker. Dont forget to sign up to receive everything in your email - ALL FREE of course! click here> > You can also click here to see all the articles on networking |          |
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