Networking

Listen to the Podcast of this blog on Apple podcasts, Spotify, Google podcasts, Podbean App, AmazonMusic/Audible, TuneIn+Alexa, Boomplay, PlayerFM, iHeartRadio

..................................................................................................................................................................

When I was growing up, one of the things I noticed was that my mom was extrovertedly social. She is what I call an “extroverted entrepreneur”. She would go to parties, and events back-to-back. I believe the relationships she built at those events helped her businesses in one way or the other. We are created as human beings to connect. Therefore, it’s not proper for you to be alone.

I see mentoring as an aspect of networking. The structure of mentorship put order in our roles by enabling routines. This should ultimately create desired value if applied consistently. Mentoring provides the tools for us to know what to do in certain circumstances. Working, not alone, but with a mentor, can make you not to stray. And that keeps us going. It is progress.

Networking could mean, at the start of your business, planning lunch dates you're going to have with your mentor. You put possible dates together, reach out to your mentor to check out those dates align with their dates, and firm up arrangements accordingly. And it could be as infrequent as once or twice a year, or as frequent as once a week or once a month. It doesn't matter. The important thing is to intentionally set the time and then you increase the frequency as may be needed.

The first call of action is to actually set the time and that's part of networking, you're reaching out. You're not overwhelmed with working. You set time apart, to actually reach out and meet with your mentor. This could also be with a coach. That's why it's called "net-work-ing". You’re “working” the word. You have to do some work; it will not happen by chance.

I find it hard to imagine a successful loner. You have got to intentionally know how to channel some part of your energy to socialize. You need people to exchange your offerings for their offerings. You need some part of your time carved out to interact with others. This has the power to prevent tunnel vision. When you interact with others, you’re able to collaborate.

I’ve realized that networking is like a buffet, no matter what you are offered, once you’re full, you’re full. If you’re taking a 3-course meal, you start with starters, and next, you eat your main dish. Once you’re full, you can’t take in more. But you may be able to take in some dessert. Because, it’s not quite the same flavour as the main meal. When we collaborate, over time, we reach our capacity for a particular offering. Then, we would need a different taste. Networking can ensure that you still take a dessert, even when you’re full.

 

Worry can weigh a person down, but an encouraging word cheers a person up. 'Cornish’s Cheer' hopes to be an encouragement to people who are under pressure, feel lonely, discouraged, or rejected. I hope these writings impart cheer, and hope and help you flourish with patience, love, and sincerity. Be encouraged and cheered. Also, practice 'speaking' positive affirmations, which can be a powerful tool to help boost confidence.

Nothing in this blog is intended to serve as life, career, health, or financial advice. Do your own research.