Few things frustrate me more than authors who give up on their dreams. They’ve always wanted to be an author, and they’ve finally written a book. They’ve done everything right from doing research to having the book professionally edited and having a beautiful cover designed. They’ve even built a website and had the book listed at online bookstores. But then the trouble starts.
Going to every meeting you can find, and thrusting your business cards into the hands of every person you can corner isn’t networking. To do it right, you have to be with the right groups, and make connections with the right individuals. networking levels doesn’t mean having fleeting contact with as many people as you can, it means building relationships with the right people.
The goal therefore is to become your new profession. Don’t wait until someone hires you before you think of yourself as a computer programmer. Start to think of yourself that way now. Begin gathering the knowledge and experience you will need. Surf websites and chat rooms. Join associations and networking groups. Talk to other programmers. Read books. Practice. And most importantly, build a body of work.
If a colleague is helping you with introductions or assistance, make sure you are reciprocating. If there is nothing that you can do at this time, be sure to tell others of this good deed.
Keep in mind, when someone gives you a lead, that someone is most likely giving your potential customer feed back. So that potential customer will have your name and know when the lead software defined networking was given to you.
Get Involved. Community Networking will get you involved in your community and that can mean a great deal to you personally and professionally. I care deeply about clean water and preserving Maine’s environment. I get involved in projects that support my desire for these initiatives. Through this I have networked with hundreds of Maine residents and have gained several business referrals. Keep in mind that my business is a Business-to-Business model and your business is a Business-to-Consumer model, so all of your connections are potential customers!
For more info: Do you love running a business and staying on top of best practices? Check back regularly for the NY Women’s Business Examiner’s tips on the best business resources, networking groups and business development. Or make it easier on yourself and just subscribe to receive an e-mail every time this site is updated. Your address will remain confidential.