The Abundant Networker

Abundant Networkers are bridge builders.

They build bridges between diverse groups of people.  They introduce people with the potential to add value to each other.  Adding value is not just about business transactions.  It's about information, support, inspiration, creativity, and engagement.

Abundant Networkers are all about connecting -- connecting with the people they meet, not just on a superficial level, but really being engaged in learning and listening to people.  Connecting is also about introducing people, being the "matchmaker" in a sense. 

Abundant Networkers see opportunities to enrich other people's lives.  Here's the bigger difference - they act on it.

What opportunities do you have to build bridges?

Posted by Kim George at 04:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Abundant Networkers ask.

They ask for what they want.

More importantly, they know what they want.  They've done their homework, prepared for the event or meeting, and they have a plan.

Abundant Networkers also ask for help.

They aren't afraid to admit when they don't know something, or could use a hand.  They understand that the power of relationships is not just in giving, but in allowing yourself to receive.  When we ask for help, we give others a gift.  When we don't accept help, we block the channel of reciprocity and allowing.

The Law of Reciprocity is not a one-way street.  It is a rotary of entrances and exits, with new opportunities presenting themselves all the time.

But we have to allow the flow of opportunity.

What could you ask for that would open your flow of opportunity?

Posted by Kim George at 09:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Abundant Networkers are connected to their inner knowing.

By being comfortable with who they are, they show up authentically.  They demonstrate a quiet confidence in the value they add through their product or service, and what they do. 

Abundant Networkers are the antithesis of the used car salesman - they're not pushy, arrogant, or invasive.  They utilize their inner knowing about the quality of their work, the conviction of their purpose, and the certainty of their follow through to convey to everyone they meet that they are worth getting to know.

What is your inner knowing about your product or service?

Posted by Kim George at 09:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Abundant Networkers practice the Law of Reciprocity.

The Law of Reciprocity is the belief that what you put out there will come back to you.  In BNI, they call this "Givers Gain".  There's a caveat here:

Abundant Networkers don't give to receive.  They give because the giving is aligned with who they are, how they add value to customers and prospects, and is an expression of how they want to be in the world.  There is no expectation of direct and immediate gain.  Abundant Networkers give because it is who they are, not because it is quid pro quo.  They know what they put out into the world will come back to them in multiple, abundant ways.

How can you practice the Law of Reciprocity in your networking today?

Posted by Kim George at 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Abundant Networkers are farmers, not hunters.  Dr. Ivan Misner, founder and chairman of Business Network Int'l (BNI) says that networking is about cultivating relationships.  Abundant Networkers focus on investing time, energy, and attention on developing key relationships.

How are you investing your time?

Posted by Kim George at 01:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)