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Networking is a vital component for the growth of any business or career. Building and nurturing a strong professional network can lead to new opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations. One reason networking is so important is we like to do business with those we know and trust.

“LRT” is an acronym that I use for Like, Respect, and Trust. I think that you must give it before you can get it.

 

LRT = Like + Respect + Trust

 

How can you be liked? You simply need to be likable, but it’s not as simple as it sounds. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” applies very well in this case. I have had the good fortune of knowing many people from all walks of life, nationalities, gender, religion, and professions. I always seem to gravitate to people I like.

It may seem obvious, but I know of many people who seem to be drawn to controlling, grumpy, or rude people. I am not exactly sure why, but they are. And I hope they may feel the same way! The more people I spend time with that are likable, the more I want to hang out with them.

 

Respectful Equals Respected

We all need to be respectful! Respect is earned over a period of time, but it can also be given immediately. Show respect before expecting it in return. If you want to be respected, be respectful every time you interact with someone… it’s one of my life principles.

Be patient and allow it to happen over time. There is no time clock or deadline required when it comes to building meaningful relationships!

 

Trusting Equals Trusted 

How can you be trusted? What does trust look like to you? Do you keep your word? I know many people who do keep their word… and some who don’t. Are you someone that others can count on when needed? Do you do what you said you would?

Trust is the backbone of any personal or professional relationship that is for keeps. Without it, you don’t have a meaningful relationship.

Networking effectively takes consistent effort and is about quality of relationships, not quantity. One cannot stay in touch with a large group of new people, and to build LRT, one must take the time to get to know others and show a genuine interest. This will also yield invitations, and referrals.

It is surprising how many outgoing business professionals are not comfortable with networking. Learn to “work the room” as the expression goes and be sure not to stand still too long. We often gravitate to those we know best, and that is fine for a quick hello and how are you but remind yourself if you are at an event for the purpose of networking, you must find someone new to introduce yourself to. Listen more than you speak, and ask questions that others find easy to answer. Maintain eye contact, and always have business cards handy. Have a goal of how many new people you may want to meet and keep that goal realistic. It is better to connect with three new people, than spend a short time with ten and not recall their name the following day.

Networking is not just about making connections, but about building relationships. It takes time and effort to build a strong network, and the benefits are well worth it in the long run. Compare networking effectively like planting seeds. A seed that is cared for, watered, and given the right environment eventually blooms into a plant, or group of plants. That can eventually become your network!

Mike Mack is the President of X5 Management, and a sought-after Executive Coach, Consultant, and Facilitator. He has been helping business teams maximize their potential since 2006 with the use of tailored consulting and training programs, along with coaching advice. For Mike, it’s about trusted collaboration with his customers. He is passionate about helping organizations increase their customer satisfaction, improve employee retention, and achieve profitable growth. He supports business in the areas of: Customer Service, Sales Growth, Team Building, Leadership Development and Strategic Planning.

He is a three-time Amazon bestselling author: REMARKABLE SERVICE - How to Keep Your Doors Open; RELATIONSHIPS FOR KEEPS - How to Build Powerful Relationships in Business and in Life, along with his latest book, LUNCH WITH LEADERS – Real Stories of Pivotal Moments for Today’s Executive, which was published January 2024.

Mike and his colleague Kris Schinke collaborated to write a book on retaining employees, which was published in October 2023; HOW TO STOP THE REVOLVING DOOR – 5 Strategies that will Positively Impact your Employees and Business Results.