|  According
to the dictionary – to rise is to move from a lower to a
higher position; to ascend. To rise is to be prominent. To rise
is to come into existence, to originate. To rise is to attain
a higher status, to meet a demand or challenge. To rise is to
return to life.
What a powerful word! If we use it in the context
of what ConnectUs teaches our clients, we recognize that the
word itself becomes the acronym for achieving success.
R – is for rapport
At ConnectUs building rapport is the first stage of
networking. Getting a general sense of someone sets the stage
to ultimately creating trust, support and connections more quickly
in the networking cycle. Building rapport means that we must
find our common denominators – what is there between us
that we can recognize as a “shared” interest, goal
or need? Using our W3 – Who am I? What do I need? What
am I willing to share? - is often the beginning to building
a mutually-beneficial relationship. We all like to help each
other, harnessing the ability to build rapport results in moving
easily to the next stage of networking where the flow of information
begins.
I – is for information
Once common denominators have been determined, it is
time to gather information that will make an effective, dynamic
networking experience. This interaction develops a clear understanding
of one’s requirements and fosters communication of resources
available, typically resulting in brainstorming for opportunities.
How one finds that information and what is done with it, is
how we each utilize our personal resources in achieving success.
At ConnectUs, we find using our ‘AHA’ Mind Map a
valuable tool in the information sector of networking.
Knowing more about a person provides the opportunity
to share resources more effectively. With a good rapport and a
clear understanding of needs, we are able to continue to gather
information using the Internet, checking web sites, associations,
volunteer organization – everywhere that will help cement
a relationship, and move that rapport forward into creating a
business opportunity for both sides of the introduction. We firmly
believe that ethical, effective networking is about creating a
win on both sides of the introduction. It is not strictly about
buying and selling products and services, but uncovering the opportunities
that are beyond the obvious.
S – is for solutions
After building the rapport and finding relevant information
that will be valuable to our connection the most exciting part
begins - determining what solutions may be available as a result
of this connection that answer the need(s) identified, or create
unexpected opportunities for development. This part of the networking
cycle is crucial. Networking must be a win/win for both parties
in every introduction. In ethical networking, we work to ensure
that both sides get a return on the time invested. It is at
this stage of the program that mutual goals are set, action
plans are developed and the connection moves into the results
driven mode. Networking is one of the best tools available in
rising to success when used correctly. It provides us with a
roadmap of whom we want to know, what we can learn about that
person and where we want to take that knowledge once learned.
Using the tool kit ConnectUs provides, makes networking a skill
that can be learned by those willing to make the effort.
E – is for ethical
Whether we use networking to further our education, grow our
business, connect regions or industries, find employment or
get engaged, networking must be based on integrity. We are in
a new era, one that is based on trust and that trust must be
earned. No longer can we refer colleagues strictly because we
have their business card, or know their area of expertise, now
we must know about their Social Capital.
Social Capital is knowing more about a person
than title, company name and elevator pitch, it’s taking
the time to understand not only what they do, but what they
like to do. Uncovering their values and defining their hobbies,
special interests and in some cases what goals they have set
for themselves.
At ConnectUs we practice the “art”
of effective networking. We recognize the importance of our
communications styles and the stages each of us must move through
to complete the cycle of ethical networking.
In this new culture of integrity – no longer
can we just assume that exchanging business cards is all that
is needed to obtain the contacts and referrals we need. Now,
we must not only build and nurture the rapport, we must make
sure that we find ways to help the other person with their goals
and objectives. Networking has become a skill that needs to
be learned, it is a process that has a beginning, a middle and
an end. It is measurable and if we don’t get the return
on investment that we need – chances are we aren’t
really looking at networking as an equation where there must
be a balance.
If you want to RISE™ above all the rest,
and become part of this new culture of integrity send us an email.
In the subject line state “I want to become part of the
new culture of integrity” Training programs are available
for education, business and personal growth. We measure your success
– it’s important for us to have you meet and exceed
your goals.
Remember, according to the dictionary –
to rise is to move from a lower to a higher position; to ascend;
to be prominent. To rise is to come into existence, to originate.
To rise is to attain a higher status, to meet a demand or challenge.
To rise, is to return to life.
RISE™ is proprietary and is delivered
by certified ConnectUs Network Counselors.
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