Is your net working?

I wonder how many people have a so-called network of business contacts they can turn to. Networking groups on the Internet, or business clubs whose members attend regular meetings should bring them new contacts and of course, work.

I belong to a business club a few months now, but the mere thought of walking in a room full of strangers makes me cringe. I have attended the club meetings two times in the past and although there were great guest speakers and delicious food, there was no time to really talk to others and I was forced to move on and talk to the next available person.

My ears were ringing because of the noise from too many people talking at the same time and I left with a bunch of business cards in my purse and had no idea who these people were.

Obviously the speed of speed networking is not working for me.

After these meetings I asked myself, if the main purpose of business clubs is only to make money through membership fees and not helping their members to make money.

What happened to the good old chat with people on the way to work, at the train station or in the grocery store? Are our lives so busy that we don’t have time for a few words that can lead to a great friendship and instead spend precious time and money at speed networking or speed dating that leads to nothing?

My 82-year old Dad is great in networking, no matter where we are, he always knows somebody. He even flirts with women in the bakery who are much younger than I am and they love to treat him to free piece of cake or a cup of coffee.

Another good example of a successful net-worker is his friend. He is self-employed, sells decorating items on trade fairs and without a website or email account, he has a flourishing business. His secret? He is open and friendly and always finds time for a little chat, no matter how busy he might be. If I would suggest to him that he should join a business club, he would think I’m out of my mind.

What both have in common is, they network all the time. Not in scheduled meetings, not with the intention to make business or to schmooze their way to a free meal. I guess we can learn from them, you never know who knows whom.