Mrs. Hancock's Blog

Link: http://theartofnetworking.com/

We find networking can be fun, but it can also be tedious. Especially when there are people in the room who really only want to meet and greet those they already know. That's fine. You certainly have the right to stay in your comfort zone, but how boring. A recent event found me in the immediate company of a woman I've met several times. She never makes an effort to say "Hello!", nor does she seem willing to make eye contact. I wonder? What's she thinking? Has she decided she doesn't like me? That can't be; she doesn't know me (and as I always stay in 'my power'); I've decided this is her problem and I move on. I do feel I've given her plenty of opportunities to 'make nice'. So that being said, I'm not sure what's going on in her brain, but what I do know: I'll never refer her. She's not open and in our way of thinking, if she's not willing to build a relationship with me, who else will she cold-shoulder out of the way.

Follow up:

There's a link here regarding networking; some great information is there. Here are a few types of people we come across in our day to day networking forays:

The "It's-All-Business" Networker: This gal's a pitcher. She wants to pitch; wants you to buy and is drooling when you pick up your purse. OH? You're just going to the Ladies' Room...thought you were pulling out your AMEX card...she'll call you every week and hound you to death to buy her face cream. Come on! People do business with people they like, respect AND people they trust. Build a relationship, first.

The "Fake" Networker: There are a lot of women in business who believe they're coming across as sweet, friendly, open. I read 'fake' a lot. Don't work people; we see right through you.

The "Friend" Networker: Are you the type of networker who never makes an effort to meet new people? Believe me, it shows.

The "It's All-About-Me" Networker: This type of woman has no desire whatsoever to include you in her life. She's just doing what she has to do; she never asks a question after you and certainly, could care less. Just listen to her monologue and move on.

The "Social Butterfly": This person has a lot of talent. She's sweet, open, genuine and people really like being in her company. She may have ulterior motives (because we do all network for a reason!), but who cares. She's fun! She's probably very successful, too, because she gives and tries in that five minute interlude.

The "Wallflower": A nice woman, a few sentences here or there. I might do business with her, she might become a good friend. Just don't make people work too hard to get to know you. Make an effort! It's okay, people will like you; just give them the chance!

The "Evil Networker": This person is scary. Don't turn your back on her. She'll stab you the minute you walk away. Some people are out just to do others harm and some people just want to think the worst of others all the time.

The "Player": Everything's great, rosey, sweet, perfect; money rolls in and she can't wait to tell you about it. Yawn.

The "Social Climber": We all know this person. Double yawn.

There's a longer list that can go here, but well, you know who you are.