How Did *I* Get Involved In Professional Networking?
Posted by the Networking Goddess in General, Networking Groups and Functions
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How Did *I* Get Involved In Professional Networking?
I think it’s a good idea for all of you to know where I got my networking experience … In the early 1990’s I got into the field of professional networking. I didn’t expect to, and it happened quite innocently. At the time, I had been in business for years, owning two retail establishments that specialized in home interior designs and custom wedding creations. I was not involved in anything relating to business, outside of my stores. I didn’t even know what Chambers of Commerce were. I had never belonged to a business group of any kind. I was very busy running my business when I received an invitation in the mail. The invitation was to a business group where I could introduce my business to other business professionals. It sounded interesting, so I called to RSVP.
To my dismay, I was told that there had been very little response to the invitations, so the meeting had been cancelled. I was offered a chance to attend a similar function…in the state of New Jersey which was three hours away from My home in New York. (Groan).
The meeting was at 7:16am. That’s right. 7:16am. Not 7:15am. 7:16am. (Groan). You know that little voice in the back of your head that tells you when you should and should not do things? It was screaming: “GO!!! Get yourself up at O-Dark-Hundred and GO!!”. (Groan). That meant leaving the house at 4am. (Groan). I reluctantly decided to go…(Ugh).
The gentleman I spoke with on the phone, invited me to ride with him to this meeting. To my surprise, he arrived at 4am and wide awake. His name was Robert Parker, (who would soon become my Mentor and friend). He was currently opening groups like this one all over the United States. Interesting idea, I thought. By the time I had completed the 3-hour-each-way trip, and the hour-and-fifteen minute meeting, I was convinced that everyone in business should belong to this type of organized networking group.I had seen thousands of dollars worth of business exchanged. I had seen members sharing tips and business secrets with each other. I could easily see the immense value the members got from belonging to the group.
I asked Rob if I could help him start such a group in my area. Within six months of working in professional networking, after owning those retail establishments for several years, I sold them to work with the small business community, teaching effective networking and relationship-building skills. I had found a way to combine my love for teaching with a sincere belief in the need and value for a strong small business community everywhere.
Well, there you have it… I have been working in the field ever since. All those years of experience culminate here with an interactive blog designed to help you be more productive and efficient. Feel free to write with your questions and/or comments relating to the field of networking. I’d love to hear from you!
Nancy
Your Networking Goddess
