Is your networking not working?

 How often have I heard that dismissive cry? Networking is largely essential aspect of business and when it works it can be a beautiful thing that can transform your business.

So if you accept networking does, why might it not for you? It could be your approach, where you are networking or your message! Now you can get huffy about that or your can make your networking work!

Networking, much like everything else in life, requires you to contribute in order to make it work. The passive approach will not work and it pays to set goals; what is it you want to achieve? With that in mind follow this approach:

• Research – what networks are there near you? How often do they meet? How much does it cost?

• Explore – try out your chosen networks and discover how they work.

• Commit – decide which networks you are going to use.

• Learn – attend any training and have one-to-ones with successful members.

• Be generous – help others and you will reap the reward.

• Review – at least quarterly review what you are getting from networking – and act!

While I have been successfully networking for over a decade, it was only two years ago I properly discovered BNI, the world’s largest networking organisation, and was asked to become a Director Consultant, so I help grow chapters and members’ businesses across Berkshire, but pricipally at BNI Bourne in Thatcham.

Personally I find weekly meetings build confidence and strong relationships much faster than monthly alternatives and BNI offers training that I have not found elsewhere.

Remember too that networking should be fun – especially if you are doing something that you truly love!

If you want to know more? Try www.bni-berkshire.co.uk  or www.networkinginberkshire.co.uk  to find networking opportunities near you – perhaps I’ll see you there?

Nigel Morgan is a former journalist who sold his soul to the dark art of spin when he was asked to bolster the thin blue line and become a police press officer. A poacher turned gamekeeper he came to realise if he could make the cops look good he could do it for anyone and Morgan PR was launched in 2002.

Nigel Morgan is a former journalist and police press officer who has run public relations consultancy Morgan PR for over 12 years and creates reputations for businesses using PR, social media and networking. Visit www.morganpr.co.uk, call 01635 812069 or email [email protected]