Networking is what I love to do and that love really led to the creation of the Michigan India Chamber of Commerce. Everyone networks differently and there are no “documented” right and wrong ways to network. In the 17 months or so (can you believe, it has been that long already!), I’ve formed many, many great connections. However, I’ve also been disappointed with some lack of “networking etiquette” which has led to the creation of this blog:

1. Networking is about connecting: Connections lead to more connections and the result is similar to “connecting the dots” whereby each dot takes you to another connection. Long story short, no connection is too boring, a waste of time, or useless. Value each connection because “you just never know who knows whom”.
   Remember: Connect, connect, connect, period!

2. Networking is about relationships: Networking is NOT about instant gratification. You have to meet the person over and over and over again to first form a relationship, then to leverage that relationship, and then to create mutual benefit.
   Remember: Networking is a longer-term investment. Results may not be achieved in one, two or even 17 months.

3. Networking is not selling: That’s right, networking is not selling. Networking is “marketing” which may or may not lead to a sale, transaction, or money exchanging hands.
   Remember: Learn to market, not sell.

4. Networking requires integrity: This is a good one that is my biggest pet peeve. So what does integrity in networking look like? It looks like the following:
• Remembering a referral
• Being a loyal networker
• Remembering to return a favor
• Sticking by your commitments
• Returning the favor

  Remember: It’s a small world, you just never know when you’ll need the other person

5. Networking beyond “what’s in it for me”: Even successful individuals have asked me; “what’s in it for me”. My answer; “whatever you put in and whatever you want to make of it”.Remember: Networking means “givers gain”. If you are successful, share and gain from that sharing. Sharing doesn’t lessen your success and only helps create good-will ambassadors for you.

To summarize, networking works. By providing the Michigan India Chamber of Commerce forum to you, I help you network. I can neither make or break your deals, broker relationships or transactions and nor can I promise you a “Return on Investment” for your participation.

“You get what you sow” is very true in networking. To make networking work for you, network:

• consistently
• whole-heartedly
• without a “what’s in it for me

And eventually you WILL see an ROI – in the form of relationships, a strong referral network, many goodwill ambassadors, and best-case scenario; your ROI will come in the form of leads & new business.

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