On today's episode of Tucson's Stars of Networking, Gordy has Kiki Rogers from Country Financial to talk about Kiki's story and how she got started networking here in Tucson, Kiki also lets us in on her networking do's and don'ts.
Reach Kiki on Facebook @Kiki Rogers or on the phone at (520) 848-5003
Networking is an essential aspect of professional growth and business development, often overlooked in its capacity to open doors beyond immediate business opportunities. The act of meeting people, establishing connections, and consistently nurturing these relationships can have far-reaching impacts on your career or business.
Each person you meet in a networking setting brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and, most importantly, a distinct network of their own. Meeting a diverse range of individuals can offer broader perspectives, innovative ideas, and potential solutions to challenges you might be facing in your own business. It’s not just about who you meet but about the stories, insights, and experiences they share. This sharing of knowledge can be invaluable as it can influence your decision-making process, open your mind to new ideas, and inspire innovative approaches to your business.
Networking is not a one-off activity but a continuous process. Building a strong network requires consistency – in attending events, in following up with contacts, and in maintaining presence on professional platforms like LinkedIn. Consistency helps in staying at the forefront of people's minds, making it more likely they'll think of you when an opportunity arises that aligns with your business or skills.
Consistent networking means continually engaging with your connections, not just reaching out when you need something. This might include sharing relevant articles, congratulating them on professional achievements, or simply checking in. It's about fostering genuine relationships rather than just transactional interactions.
The true value of networking often lies beyond immediate business opportunities. While the person you are directly networking with might not be in the position to do business with you, they may know someone who can. This is where the concept of “six degrees of separation” comes into play – the idea that all people are six, or fewer, social connections away from each other.
By nurturing a diverse network, you tap into a web of potential opportunities. For example, even if a connection does not need your services, they might refer you to someone in their network who does, effectively expanding your reach. This ripple effect of networking can unlock doors that you didn’t even know existed.
It's crucial to build a network that spans various industries, roles, and backgrounds. Diverse networks are more than just a business asset; they are a treasure trove of insights, perspectives, and opportunities. People from different fields or industries can offer fresh viewpoints or inspire new ways of thinking. A connection in a seemingly unrelated field might be the one who introduces you to your biggest client or your future business partner.
Networking is an investment in your professional future. It requires meeting new people, being consistent in your engagements, and understanding the broad scope of potential benefits. It’s a long-term endeavor with rewards that go far beyond immediate gains. Nurturing a diverse network with consistent, meaningful interactions is fundamental to uncovering opportunities, gaining industry insights, and fostering sustainable professional growth. Remember, networking is not just about what you can get; it's also about what you can give back, creating a mutual exchange of value that benefits the entire professional community.