Mar 06 2008
Unexpected Benefits of Networking
Looking at networking as a chore or a strict business activity may blind you to some of the perks out there.
Last night I attended a Biznik workshop in Seattle on pitches and networking. As usual at a Biznik event, I met a few people who were interested in my business as well as some of the people I have come to call friends. Not only that, I got some valuable feedback on my “elevator pitch.”
But perhaps the most interesting development of the night was meeting JR, a singer-songwriter and film composer. On the surface, she may not seem to be my ideal client - she is in an industry I know little about and offers a product, whereas most of my clients are service-based.
Instead of networking with blinders on, however, I spoke to her and learned a little bit about her music. This morning I went to her website to learn more about her and then checked iTunes to see if I could find samples of her music before writing her a “nice to meet you” email.
I love her music! I promptly bought the entire album, and I want to encourage you to check it out as well. It is a folksy soul (is that a real combination?) type of music that really appeals to me, and I’m so happy to have met her last night. Her album Afriqueen Stare is inspired by the life her late sister, Susan, and includes a great version of Fleetwood Mac’s Landslide.
So, keep your eyes (and ears) open when networking for more than just your business. You never know who you might meet or how your life might be enriched.
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What you have said is so true, Betsy. If we remove the “What’s in it for me?” mindset, not only do we relax and enjoy meeting new people, but we expand our circle of friends and become open to the different ways people can impact our lives. The story of your new musician friend is a perfect example of that.
Great observations, Betsy. I love hearing stories like this. Business networking really is something that you have to participate in, for it to work well. And who knows where that can take you! Off to check out JR’s music myself now… I need some fresh tunes on my iPhone!
Betsy - your blog has been fantastic the past week or so! You are on a roll, my friend - keep up the good work, advice, etc. We love it!