#1 networking rule: Practicing the 80% rule

If you think someone is important with whom to network, then chances are you are not alone. Those people will be well sought after.

How do they decide with whom to share their networking contacts? Assume you are on par with the other candidates in being polite, prompt, etc. So what will set you apart?

Make the meeting a true networking meeting where both people feel they have gotten a benefit by practicing what I call the “80% Rule”. 80% of your networking should be figuring out what you can offer the other person.

My friend, Jeff Arnesen of Houlihan Lokey, one of the best networkers I’ve met, tipped me off : Give first, get second. With 8,000 contacts, Jeff can offer more than the average networker. He offers them when he feels the person with whom he meets is there to build a relationship.

This is how you should start the meeting and set the tone that you came to network, not just to get three or four more names with whom to network. Trust me, with 600+ networking meetings under my belt – you’ll get those names and then some.

If you take care of your networking contact – they will take care of you. Learn about their business, what is a target client, how do those clients make decisions, and what is a good networking contact for them. Then think about the people you’ve met or know – is there someone you can connect them.

See the Toolkit at www.candidateschair.com for ideas on 80% Rule on the types of connections you can make for different people you meet.

Good luck today!

Mark Richards

www.candidateschair.com
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