Written by Compassionate networking sounds like a bit of an oxymoron, doesn’t it? Generally when we think of the term networking, visions of aggressive sales pitches and business cards thrust in your face are generally what come to mind.
So many folks do it all wrong. And it leaves a bitter taste in the mouths of even the most experienced networkers.
But recently I had the most compassionate networking experience, it has restored my faith in this marketing practice.
If I’m honest, I’ll admit that I’ve shied away from networking lately because of all of those bad experiences mentioned above.
They left me feeling worn down and agitated.
So, this most recent experience of compassionate networking was a very welcome surprise.
Here’s what this gentleman, let’s call him Gary, did that made for a compassionate networking experience.
Compassionate Networking Means Asking Questions
Right from the beginning of the conversation, Gary started asking me questions about not only my work, but my personal life as well.
He did not come out of the gate with a sales pitch.
Nor did he try to fill the space by talking only about himself.
Gary started asking me about me, without any hidden agenda.
Compassionate Networking Requires Real Listening
So often when people are networking, they may ask questions, but don’t really listen to your answers.
At least not with the intention of really getting to know you.
It’s more of a filler until they can get to the point where they feel that they have established enough rapport, they can then jump in with their sales pitch.
It was obvious very quickly to me that Gary was really listening to understand.
How do I know that? He started asking follow up questions to my answers!
Compassionate Networking Offers to Help
When you offer to help, or look for ways to support the other person, it’s the beginning of a wonderful experience.
A friendship is born.
This can lead to a rewarding partnership, friendship, support system….I could go on and on!
So I’m sure you can imagine how touched I was when I heard Gary say,
“Lisa, I love the work that you’re doing. I’m curious, what is the best way that I can support you?”
Bingo! This is such a game changer.
It tears down the walls of defense where you would normally be protecting yourself from yet another sleazy sales pitch.
When you come from a place of giving, people will naturally gravitate toward you.
Gary made me feel cared for and supported in that moment.
It made me want to reciprocate and support him as well.
Keeping the Conversation Going
Often, when we end a networking call or meeting, we state that we want to keep in touch.
But, you can always feel the difference between the authenticity of this statement and when we say it just as a means of closing out the conversation.
I really felt that in my conversation with Gary.
As a matter of fact, I spent that weekend, thinking of people I might want to introduce Gary to for support of his work.
When I’m really on my networking game, I’ll schedule a second phone call before getting off the first one.
It’s a great way of intentionally building the relationship and looking for additional ways to support one another.
I regret not doing this with Gary….like I said, I was a little off my game and some of my skills had gotten rusty.
Networking is one of the best ways to build your practice. When you end up getting referrals, there is a transference of trust that takes place that makes getting business so much easier!
Looking for more tips on Networking to grow your practice? Check out our YouTube Channel or our blog page and start networking today!