The Art of Networking

I was asked to write an article "The Power of Networking", but truly, networking is a true "art" form. As Darcy Rezac's writes in his book Work the Pond "networking is like dancing - you always get better with practice."

Networking is key to present and future success in almost every aspect of life - career, business, philanthropy, dating - it fosters and encourages the meeting of new people and a possible exchange of ideas. The true spirit of networking is not about selling yourself or selling your products right there on the spot, it is about making connections that might help everyone down the road. I network so I increase my corporate visibility in Vancouver; I network because I like being able to say "oh yes you should talk to my friend so-and-so she can help you with that".

In smaller market cities such as Calgary, Edmonton or Vancouver, it is indeed about who you know. In Vancouver, 98% of businesses are classified as small business (under 50 employees). Coming from Toronto where "schmoozing" and "hob-nobbing" occur on a daily/nightly basis, I find that Vancouverites are just starting to really grasp and understand the importance of having a good network.

If you are in search of a new career - you will have a much better chance of landing your dream job if you go out and network and meet potential employers - make an impression that a piece of paper cannot! Also, remember that it is not just who you meet, it is who the people you meet know. For example, a person looking for a new career may approach me, I might not have an opening now, but my friend over at the bar does - so let me introduce them!

If you are looking to sell a service or product, do not try to stuff it down everyone's throat while networking, instead ask for permission if you can follow up with them at a later, more appropriate time. Even then, keep the conversation focused on how you can help them. I always say "do good things so that you're putting money in the karma bank". Like in Malcolm Gladwell's book Tipping Point, are you a good "Connector"?

Many think that the only place to network is at a specific networking event where the purpose is to exchange business cards and talk about your business. But, any where there is a group of people is a chance for you to build on your networking skills. At a charity event, a class reunion, at a cocktail party, at a seminar - all which can be great places to meet new people and get your name out there.

General tips on networking:

• Distribute business cards to people you meet but more importantly get their cards