Secrets for Unreasonably Successful Networking

by Nathaniel Whittemore · 2009-09-23 21:41:00 UTC
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Networking is something of a dirty word. It can conjure up images of slick, salesmen-like folks wringing your hand, forcing their pitch on you as though the world would end if they didn't get it out. But networking doesn't have to be that way. Because what it's really about is extending the group of people who you can open up opportunities before, share resources with, and eventually, when you need it, look to for support.

I loved this post by Unreasonable Institute co-founder Daniel called "The Key to Powerful Relationships (Genuine Networking)." Dan is one of the most sincere people I've come across in the last year, and lives these values every day.

His full list includes everything from "Listen and Learn," to "Make the Ask," and all of his tips are dead on. That said, there are a few that I think are the most important.

His first tip is "The person you are talking to is the Messiah in the room." This is for sure true. Think about how many times you've heard people talk about celebrities and big names who are known for their charisma - people like Bill Clinton - where the description is all about how they felt like they were the only person in the room. This is huge - and worthy of practice.

A little bit farther down the list is "Be Vulnerable." His point is basically that you don't have to own everything, and being open and honest not only about what you're good at and what you think you have figured out, but what you need help with can be one of the most disarming tools in your networking repertoire.

The list is comprehensive, but there is one that I would add, which is to "give more." People underestimate both how much they have to give - ideas, connections, opinions, how rewarding it is to give, and how much giving first, giving often, and giving generously can ensure that when you do have something you need, someone is there to help.

Check out the full list on the Unreasonable Blog and keep your eyes on these guys in 2010.

(Photo: Jason Tester)

Nathaniel Whittemore is the founder of Assetmap. Previously he was the founding director of the Northwestern University Center for Global Engagement.
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