Archive for April 2012
Misconceptions of Networking
When it comes to the brand that “networking” has, it can often leave more of a bad taste in people’s mouth than a good one. All it takes is one bad or awkward experience with someone who’s “trying” to network. Here are just a few of the misconceptions I’ve seen in Networking.
Misconception # 1.) To be a Networker, you must be an extrovert.
Being an extrovert HELPS, but it’s definitely not a must have. In fact, the person that does networking the best that I know is actually an introvert, Justin Lathrop. To be a good networker, you just need to be genuine. How outgoing or not outgoing you are has very little to do with it. If you want to get better at networking, just NOTICE people and really listen to what they’re saying. You’d be surprised how many people have told me that the people they love to be around are the people that “really value” them.
Misconception #2.) Networking is simply for personal gain, for people who are trying to get ahead in their career.
For some people, this is true. But for you, it doesn’t have to be. I use these words at least 5 times a week, “Let’s connect soon.” My number one goal in connecting with people is to help them on anything I can. I heard someone say when I was in high school, “Want to change the world? Ask every single person you see for the rest of your life one question: Is there anything I can do for you?” Good networking is about bringing value to relationships, not taking it.
Misconception #3.) I have enough friends and know enough people, I don’t need to ‘network’.
False. You have no idea who could be missing out from the value you could bring to a new found friendship. I often times will simply connect one person to another person I think can help them. Ultimately, you’re answering this question: “God, how can I manage my relationships to further your kingdom?” At the end of the day, it’s not about you.
Networking can be a really great thing if you allow it to be.
4 Reasons You Should Go to Catalyst Dallas
1.) Resources. Brad Lomenick and the Catalyst team go to great lengths to make sure that every person who attends a Catalyst event walks away with tangible materials that can help you be more effective in your organization. And… a lot of these resources are FREE!
2.) Relationships. Some people knock people who go to conferences to meet people, but I would challenge their thinking on that. If there’s one thing I’ve experienced in ministry and business… it’s the FAVOR of God like crazy. But looking back on my life, I consistently put myself in a position to be favored. I’ve gone to places I really had no desire to be at, but I would simply go, not to network, but to simply meet people. You never know who you’re going to run into at a conference. One of my best friends in the world today is one of my best friends in the world today simply because we REconnected at conference. It’s well worth it.
3.) Inspiration. Listen here. Judah Smith, Matt Chandler, & Andy Stanley… just to name a few of the speakers that will be there. These dudes are bad to the bone. I’ve NEVER listened to anyone of the speakers lined up for the conference and been disappointed. I’ve always left inspired.
4.) Worship. One of the coolest parts about Catalyst Dallas is the worship. We all often live in our own cul de sac of the church world and never get an opportunity to worship with other people from different denominations and backgrounds. It’s good for you to get around some people who love Jesus just as much as you do, but perhaps they think a little different than you. We all can learn from each other.
The dates for the Conference are May 9-11, 2012. You can sign up for it here.