By Jennifer Sherman

I wish someone had told me long ago, what a truly valuable resource networking can be. During my 11 years in corporate marketing I often attended events as a requirement of my job. During those events I pretty much kept to my circle of co-workers and I never used networking as a tool for the times I was looking to change jobs. However, if I knew then what I know now, I would've worked a lot harder at becoming a successful networker.

Networking, if done correctly, can net you unbelievable resources. Through this process you may find wonderful new friends, powerful business contacts, numerous clients and most surprisingly, a world of new doors opening to you. So how do we head into a room of strangers and make all that happen? The most critical factor is shifting your expectations.

How many times have you attended an event because you needed something? Your sole purpose for being there was to find clients or find someone who could help you get a new job. So you headed in, mustered up all your confidence, worked the room, and told everyone what wonderful skills and values you have to offer. Feeling good you headed home, cards in pocket only to find that you netted very few results.

STEP ONE: FIND THE RIGHT GROUPS

Just like your marketing efforts, if you are going to be successful at networking, you need to find groups that match your target demographics. This may require some trial and error. Investigate different organizations that match your potential client base or industry. Before joining the organization, attend an event and see if there is a fit. You can always join later but don't waste fees on groups that aren't appropriate for your business or job search. To find these groups look no further than the Internet. There are organizations for everything, so do the research to figure out where you can garner maximum results.

STEP TWO: BRING YOUR CURIOSITY

The key to great networking is to bring a genuine curiosity for others, their work and their lives. Speaking to others with this type of attitude opens individuals to discuss themselves and it gives you a chance to identify how your skills, contacts or services might actually benefit them. It also gives you an opportunity to really connect with people rather than focusing on what you can say about yourself. This connection is what creates true resources, because when we connect with individuals we usually will go out of our way to help that person. Why? Because it is genuine. A side benefit is that you may make some great new friends.

STEP THREE: BE OPEN TO THE POSSIBILITIES

This is one of the most valuable lessons I have learned during all of my networking. If you go focused on one thing: getting clients or finding a job, you may miss out on opportunities you never even considered. For example, I went to a recent event looking to meet new people and of course potential clients. A woman approached me who was seeking a workshop facilitator for a networking group she is part of. While I give local workshops, I had never thought of becoming a facilitator for an established group. This woman was not a potential coaching client but she opened up an unexpected door for me that has allowed me to grow and expand my business into a whole new arena. Bottom line: think broadly, you may run into someone who needs speakers for an event, who writes for a local publication or who knows someone who needs you! Bringing an open mind can open doors you never even knew were there!

Networking is a powerful tool, that if used correctly can literally transform your business. Have fun with it, enjoy the company of the individuals you meet and chat with. Do some research to determine which groups make the most sense for your efforts and consider everywhere you go and everyone you talk to, a networking opporutunity. And most importantly, bring your curiosity and open mind and you will take away far more than you could have imagined.

About the Author:

Jennifer Sherman, C.E.C. is a Certified Small Business Coach, Trainer & Speaker.  She has helped countless entrepreneurs, executives and established business owners from all over the U.S. maximize their potential both personally and professionally.  For more information or a consultation log onto www.envisionyourpossibilities.com.