The 5 B's of Networking
As I was researching for this blog, I discovered that I’ve written about Networking on three previous occasions. In 2019 was titled, “Stop Networking,” in 2020 it was “Networking The New Way,” and in 2021 it was “In-Person Events Are Back, Now What?”
It's interesting that I’ve written about one topic so much, and here I go again, so it must be an important topic. Back in 2020, I offered a free online training course about “Networking The New Way.” Now, given I’m writing about this topic again, I’m wondering if I should dust it off, give it an update and do it again. It's definitely something to think about for this year. Regardless, hopefully, this blog will help you achieve your networking goals as we move forward in 2025.
At its core, networking is interacting with others to develop new contacts, and maybe, just maybe, we can generate some business. However, I think it goes much deeper than that. To me, networking is about meeting people and developing meaningful connections and relationships. It doesn’t always have to lead to an opportunity or a sale.
Networking is important for you and your business, but remember, networking is not about you. It’s about the other person and your focus should be on listening and engaging with them. If you focus on the other person, you’ll be amazed at how easy and how much fun networking can be. But as with anything that is important, especially in business, you need to make a plan. Yes, you need a networking plan.
Now this does not have to be a complicated document or road map, so don’t overthink it. Your plan should include what you are doing, why it’s important to you, and what success looks like in networking interactions. I’m confident you would not send your installers out to install a project without the appropriate tools, including a plan or instructions. Why would you invest in networking without a plan in place to make those conversations easier and more natural for yourself?
Most people dislike networking or dread going to events because they don’t have a plan. They just go because someone invited them or their boss told them to go. Your plan should include your goals and how many events you are going to, the ideal people you want to connect with, and what your follow-up is going to be - and please don't spam people!
As a friendly reminder, you don’t have to be in person to network. Networking can happen online too. If done the right way, it can be very effective. My recommendation is to use LinkedIn, but other social media sites can work as well. I’ve met a lot of people on LinkedIn and have been able to build relationships with them that have led to me connecting them with some who need their product or service, me purchasing what they have to offer or them buying from me. The most important aspect of online networking is being intentional about what you are doing and why. Again, don’t spam people. It’s the guaranteed way to stop a relationship from developing.
It's also important to remember that you can and should network with people you are already connected with. We spend a lot of time looking for new relationships, and we often forget about the people we already have relationships with, so if you are on the fence about going to an event or reaching out cold to someone online, start with those you already know but maybe haven’t connected with in some time.
These tips will work for you, and your colleagues in almost any situation, so let’s take a quick look at the 5 B’s of Networking:
#1 - Be Intentional! Make a plan, know what you’re doing, why you’re doing it, who you want to connect with, and how you can support or help them. Remember, networking is not about you.
#2 - Be Proactive! If you see someone you know or in your network who’s looking for a job, needs help, or simply asking for information or resources, see what you can do to help them. Initiate a conversation and invite them to a Zoom call! Though this can be effective in person, it works great when you're scrolling on social media. The opportunity to connect is always there.
#3 - Be Flexible! Your time is valuable, but so is the other person's. There are people in our lives experiencing things we know nothing about. So when the opportunity presents itself, be flexible and prioritize their time — if they ask for a call on a Saturday, accommodate them. Netflix can wait a few minutes!
#4 - Be Creative! Our industry is made up of creative thinkers, innovators, and problem solvers. Take the same approach to connecting with others. Listen to what their needs are, offer ideas, and alternatives, suggest different avenues, provide connections, and send relevant resources to help them discover what they are looking for or need.
#5 - Be Open! Be open to the possibility that the other person can help you more than you might be able to help them. It’s a powerful experience when we open ourselves up to receiving the gifts others have to offer. Some of the most important relationships in my life and most powerful connections in my business have come from those I never expected to gain blessings from. Sometimes these unexpected conversations open up really important connections.
Networking is easy. Meeting people is easy. Passing out business cards is easy. Truly connecting with someone new is hard, and it takes effort and work on your part! And it’s not going to work with everyone you try to connect with. But, if you do it correctly and use these points, the possibilities are endless - new connections can introduce you to multiple people who need your product or services, or maybe they introduce you to the decision maker in their organization who buys what you sell. One true connection could develop into multiple opportunities - over time. Don’t rush it. Make it meaningful for you and them!
None of us need more random people filling up our lives and social feeds. But we all need more true connections and meaningful relationships, especially in today’s world.
Cheers to an amazing 2025 friends!