Susan Boyle and Networking

Susan Boyle Declined Dinner with the Obamas.

http://www.newser.com/story/58537/boyle-declines-dinner-with-the-obamas.html


Susan Boyle became endeared to me when she stood up to those shallow people, showed them her talent, and earned their respect.

I can't help but see the parallel with her mindset and networking. I believe that the number one rule of networking is, "Simply be yourself!"

Mind you, I am not criticizing her at all for not accepting an invitation with the Obamas. Many people consider themselves shy and avoid networking and meeting new people.

Networking is simply getting to know people, teaching them what you're good at and what your skills are, and learning the same for them. It's both 'giving of yourself and getting to know your conversational partner.'

I admire Susan Boyle and hope she develops more confidence so she is comfortable meeting anyone in this world. She has alot to offer. She also has international attention, so she can stand to have one less fan. How about you? Can you afford to let networking slip through the cracks? One person, as an average has abot 250 contacts in their network. Each of those 250 has another 250; and so on. When you turn down one person, or make a negative impression on one person, you're cutting your chances short of gettin exposure to a crowd of many, many people.

One person in that crowd may have just what you need. A job? A piece of information? An introduction to a huge client? That person could simply become your friend or provide a valuable resource. You could provide meaningful value to that person as well. Are you willing to forego opportunities to avoid a little awkwardness?

If you've got a worldwide following, like Susan Boyle, don't worry about it. But, if you are everyman..... consider stepping out of the box and trying something new. Take someone up on his offer for coffee? Share information readily. You have alot to offer, and you have nothing to lose.