Networking: A New Approach of Pay It Forward

A couple of years ago, after ten years of tele-commuting, I jumped back to the “real” world and into the new world of networking. It has come along way from the “Chamber of Commerce” events I had been a part of many years ago.

Networking has taken on a new look and new feel.  Networking is more about relationships than about business.  I am finding more and more groups lead by females and embracing home-based businesses, including direct sales and party plan businesses. As I looked at networking events, I took the approach of filling my calendar with every event possible. I attended those that were “free”, the paid groups and those supported by vendors.  I learned a great deal through my own experience — more about that later.  I also looked for advice from the “pros”.

I read information online and looked at several books. I’m at a Networking Event–Now What???: A Guide to Getting the Most Out of Any Networking Event by Sandy Jones-Kaminski was by far the most helpful and comprehensive one I found. It covered a variety of situations and scenarios and outlined the practical steps and uses of networking in today’s society and fast-paced world.

Sandy’s unique approach to “networking better” and “pay it forward” philosophy changed the way I looked at networking.  Networking is not about collecting names and business cards. It is about CONNECTING people with people – not necessarily connecting YOU with people!

The quote “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care” resonates with her philosophy. Network to help others not just yourself! WOW – what a concept!

Her practical tips from choose the events to introducing yourself and following up lay the foundation for successful marketing. Don’t leave an event with 20 business cards – leave the event with quality connections. This changed the way I networked and lead to many successful business and personal connections that changed my life and the lives of others.

If you are looking to build your business or find a new career, I highly recommend reading this book and learning how to use networking events to build your relationships.  Direct Sales/Party Plan businesses are built on relationships.  Exchanging cards at the event is just the first step…after you have chosen the right events to attend.

Direct Sales: 5 Inner "Whys" People Join Your Team

Direct Selling is unique in that it does offer something for everybody – purchase great products, host a party or choose a career. It offers a unique opportunity for earning income and personal satisfaction. Not everyone will join your business for the money. There are five key reasons women (and men) join direct selling companies. These  needs are based on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.

Image from WikiPedia

 

As you talk with a prospective consultant, ask questions to find which reason – or need – your opportunity will fulfill and help the prospect learn how it can benefit her.

The Five “Inner Whys”:

1.        Basic Needs

Are they looking to fulfill a basic financial need? Make a payment? Having month left at the end of the money?  How will the extra income make them  feel when their basic needs are met?  

 

·         Focus on retail profit

 

2.       Financial Needs

Are they looking “longer term” to pay off debt? Save for college or a new car? Maybe a bigger house? Are they looking for financial security?

 

·         Share the profit as well as team building and leadership option.

 

3.        Social Needs

Do they want to talk to someone over three-feet tall? Do they want to talk to someone who is in the same room and doesn’t TEXT the answer back? Are they starting a new phase in life?  Do they love meeting new people? Do they love organizing events? Do they love making people smile?

 

·       Party time! Social butterflies love the party potential. They also may enjoy team meetings, trips and conferences.

 

4.        Recognition Needs

Are they in a “dead-end” job?  Not appreciated for the work they do?  Do they have untapped potential? Do they want to be recognized for special talents and abilities?

 

·       Share the pins, certificates and newsletter recognition they will receive. They also received recognition in title advancements, speaking and training at local meetings and calls.

 

5.        High Achiever

• Are they a high achiever and want to go higher?  Did they reach a glass ceiling and want MORE? Are they hungry to learn, to teach, to lead others?  Do they love the podium?  Do they want inner self-satisfaction for doing the best they can every time?  Share the compensation plan and how to move into leadership. They also love a challenge – special bonuses and rewards.

By understanding the basic needs and "WHY's" people join a direct sales company, we can focus on how our opportunity will best fulfill those needs.