Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Walking the walk and not just talking the talk

Successful networkers build their reputation at the same time as building relationships. Networking, both online and offline, is a great way of building your reputation by sharing your expertise. Your advocates can then make connections for you when the right opportunity presents itself.

I get many offers from people interested in speaking at NRG business networking events. I explain that we concentrate on Practical Business and Personal Development in the Seminars at our Networking Events and that priority is given to NRG members when choosing presenters. They are not Sales Pitches and by educating and informing other members and guests the speakers build their own reputation and help others achieve their own goals. This enhances the overall networking experience and strengthens the relationships being built.

Many of the offers recently have been from 'Social Media Experts'. I always speak to people I trust about prospective speakers. I also google them to check out their online presence and contribution. In one or two instances even these 'social media experts' have only had a limited presence online. Can you really speak authoritatively about Social Media with a handful of followers on Twitter and even fewer updates?

Much of your reputation comes from what you do rather than what you say. Make sure you are doing the things that match and enhance the message you are giving to your network. If you are referred to someone then that person will probably speak to others and check you out online too.

Good Networking!
Dave Clarke
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