NO SUCH THING AS A FREE LUNCH

We didn't feel like cooking Wednesday night and heard that a certain chain had 'kids pay a penny for each pound they weigh'. Since both cherubs would cost less than a dollar, opted for this great deal ('free meal'). Long story short, the kids drinks were not included with their meal, and were outrageously over-priced. The food was not good and arrived cold. So, we actually paid 'regular price' for this 'free meal'.

We could have gone to our old stand-by 'favorite place' and we would have had a delicious meal for 'a regular price'.

I felt a little ripped off; like I was duped. "There's no such thing as a free lunch." That icky feeling I had reminded me of what many participants say in my networking skills workshops. "Networking feels manipulative." "I feel like I'm selling my soul for something to be given at a later date." "I hate networking."

Yet, after learning the Contacts Count method of networking, those participants' mindsets change. They see the difference between professional networking and the sleazy 'tricked ya' free meal offer. The difference is that networking is above-board, honest and upfront. When people are frank and candid about wanting to help each other and they make networking a two-way street of giving and teaching; it is successful practice. Networking is about learning what others want and need to be successful and giving advice, resources and leads to help them achieve their goals. It's about teaching people what you're good at, what kinds of resources, ideas and leads would be helpful to you so they can support you.

When people see our character and competence, we develop professional relationships and it's mutually beneficial process. When we whip out a card at a networking event, and try to sell something upon meeting someone, before getting to know the them; well, we give off that same slick feeling as 'the 'kids eat free' marketing stuff. Networking is not a gimmick, it's for professionals who create, cultivate, capitalize and support their contacts and relationships.

Next time you go to a networking event, create an agenda. Be prepared to ask questions and get to know the people you talk to. THEN, you can follow up with them and begin to develop a relationship. Identify two or three things that you'd like to learn and ASK! "Do you know who I should talk to about learning more about shortcuts in Microsoft Word?" When you network, you should be in it for the long haul..... not for a quick fix, or free meal!