Your Personal Packaging Plan

The craft of making money with your network

Let's explore the human side of networking. I've heard it referred to as Networking Etiquette. That sounds stuffy and makes me wonder if I should ask which fork to use.

Honestly, perfecting the craft of networking includes most of the skills you already know. And the cornerstone is simple:

"GIVE AND YOU WILL RECEIVE"

For the answers, we'll draw on the experience of experts who practice Focused Networking. They'll tell you what works and let you make your own decision.

How to fine tune your people skills

Regardless of what business you're in, you're in sales. You must sell yourself as a committed, trustworthy link in many networks. To do that, it's essential that you have a "package" you can be proud of.

Here are some almost guaranteed methods:

1. Toastmasters International provides a safe environment to learn presentation and public speaking skills and gain confidence in groups. Everyone is there to learn and you'll receive thoughtful evaluation. Ask those in your networking system about their Toastmasters group. Focused Networking depends on personal referrals.
   
2. Network for a recommendation on an image consultant...not to select the right suit or jacket, but to instruct you on how to smooth out any rough edges. If you have an accent you don't like, a speech pattern that needs some correction, or a mannerism you can't live without, talk to others in your network. Get a personal referral to help you make a decision.
   
3. Use the self-help approach. There are scores of excellent books on how to polish your image. Don't attempt a total renovation in one day. Again, make a more refined image your long term goal and break that goal down into workable sections. For example, short terms goals might be to connect and get a referral on a public speaking class, locate a hairdresser to update your look, get a recommendation on a wardrobe consultant, ask colleagues about their Toastmasters group and go to a meeting as a guest, etc.
   
4. Discuss your appearance, mannerisms and voice quality with a trusted friend or associate. Ask for advice; ask for a measure of their experience. Have the friend video you reading, in a conversation, walking and sitting. Then evaluate how you might improve your image.
   

We welcome your comments below.