Network even if you aren't looking for business

I have been to networking meetings when the conversation includes people stating what they’re currently looking for to help grow their business. Sometimes a person replies that they don’t need anything. Business is great, revenues are on target, they’re working the amount of hours they want to work, and their goals are being met.

So, why are they still networking? The first and foremost reason to network is to meet people and build relationships. Business might be good at the moment, but you never know when your best customer is no longer a customer. Or you might change your goals, decide to grow, hire more employees - whatever the scenario - and additional business will be needed to meet your projections.

Building relationships is not an overnight happening. Rather than starting to create your network when you need it, you’re much better off if you already have a network in place. Then, when needs change, you can immediately begin working toward your next goal.

There are many of other reasons, besides business, to network. Do you enjoy speaking, and have a topic that would be of interest to others? Use your networks to help find speaking opportunities. Civic organizations are always looking for someone to provide an interesting talk at their meetings. The next time you’re at a networking event, let people know you’re looking for this opportunity.

Are you a volunteer for a non-profit organization? Think of how many business owners and management-level decision-makers you network with. If you’ve built a relationship with them, your requests for donations will often result in success. I served on a silent auction committee for quite a few years, and just a few conversations, phone calls or emails resulted in a variety of unique and valuable items. Without my network of professionals and business owners, I would have had to knock on doors and ask total strangers for donations. This most likely would not have achieved near the results.

Are you a professional who likes to be known as the ‘go-to’ person for your clients and others? Building a great list of people you know and trust will give you that ability. When people start calling you for referrals, that will make you more valuable than the others in your industry. And when they need a realtor, mortgage broker or insurance agent or (insert your profession), they will most likely remember you because you’ve previously helped them. And you’ll be at the top of their list of people they refer because you provided this service to them.

Networking isn’t just about other businesses. Don’t forget about family and friends. When my mother needed a new roof, she asked me who she should call. A friend needed an attorney, and asked who I would recommend. My son’s air conditioner quit working when it was 90 degrees. He called me, and the relationship I had developed with an HVAC business owner put my son at the top of their list.

The opportunities to become a great resource are numerous. Being able to help others is a good reason in itself to network. Not only did I help my mother, friend and son, I also sent business to people who I have developed a relationship with. And that has great value!