The Networking in Network Marketing
Networking is obviously an essential part of network
marketing.
Every successful network marketer knows this to be true. Although networking
is such an intricate part of network marketing, the two terms are not
synonymous. However, there are many similarities. Both rely heavily on
people skills. Both require people to confront their fear of talking to
other people. Both carry with them the risk of rejection. Both also carry
with them enormous opportunity. And to some people, both are considered
dirty words.
Of course, people that consider networking as something that is 'not done'
don't understand what networking is really about. The same can be said
of people that think network marketing is something that is beneath them.
Many people think of networking as a way to get connected solely for their
own advancement in life. In that respect a person might feel that it is
unethical or not noble to network. This line of thinking stems from the
idea that advancement will always come at the expense of someone else,
that success in life is a zero-sum game. These people often look at network
marketing from the same perspective. They think of profiting from other
people's efforts as something that is negative and not fair to them. In
reality, successful networkers will tell you that it doesn't work that
way at all. Networking doesn't have to be at anybody's expense and the
business of network marketing doesn't reward anyone for taking advantage
of others. It actually rewards people for helping other people to succeed.
In that respect it is arguably the most ethical business model in the
world today.
Different types of Networkers
A lot of the negativity around networking can be explained by the different
types of networkers. Some can be considered 'hunters', moving in for a
quick kill, after which they move out again. They often operate without
regard of the other persons interest and because of this they will enjoy
the fruits of success for only a limited period of time. Often it will
not take long before people find out what's really driving the hunter.
Once they see that he or she is only looking after his or her own interests,
their willingness to interact with this person will quickly evaporate.
By contrast, truly successful networkers are often 'farmers' who spend
a lot of time sowing and nourishing their relationships, instead of just
focusing on reaping. They invest in their network, they energize their
network. They use their network, but they never ever abuse their network!
And their network knows this. A true networker will always keep the interests
of others in mind. That's why working with a true networker is so enjoyable.
Networkers are often very likeable and as such people like to interact
with them.
Networking is essential to ALL businesses
Networking is a skill that is essential to all businesses, not just network
marketing. Although network marketing differs in many ways from the more
traditional forms of doing business, the importance of networking is just
as prevalent. If not more so. A network marketer that doesn't know how
to network will be out of business in no time.
Network marketing is, first and foremost, a people business and implies
that the ability to effectively work with people is absolutely critical.
This is why successful network marketers are extremely adept at networking.
Many have found out over time that developing this skill can pay off in
many areas outside their network marketing business as well. Business
owners who have started a home based business on the side often apply
their enhanced networking and people's skills in their traditional business
with great success. For some network marketers, this spin-off has earned
them more money than the income from their network marketing business
itself.
So whether you are in network marketing or in a more traditional type
of business, don't underestimate the importance of becoming an effective
networker. And, if you really want to master this skill, you may find
there is a lot to learn from good network marketers.
If you happen to know anybody that fits that description, try and benefit
from their knowledge on the topic. It will surely help you network your
way to success!
If you'd like to explore a network marketing business that could be right for you, please feel free to contact me for a chat.
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