You’ve probably heard me say: “it’s not the networking, it’s the network”. After you help enough people, a time will come when you need some guidance. It’s the value you get from your network.
In this month’s issue of Successful Meetings is an article by the founder of J.D. Power and Associates where he served as Chairman of the Board from 1996 until April 2005. He is also on the board of directors for Forbes magazine. I grabbed two observations from Lessons in Business Success from J.D. Power because they show the value of a network.
His opening sentence: After 50 years spent working with a range of companies, I have come away with a few thoughts about how to have the best shot at success in business.
1. Relationships matter, but they need to be built upon a bedrock of respect and trust, not just friendships. I never approached business relationships as requiring glad-handing or wining and dining. In the beginning, I simply couldn’t afford it, but as J.D. Power’s success widened, I found that true relationships with executives came from providing them with the clear, actionable information they needed to do their jobs.
2. Find information and inspiration in the work of others. I have long been a student of the writings of Walter Wriston, Peter Drucker, W. Edwards Deming, and Alvin Toffler. Their observations are still compelling today, as are myriad others who can offer insight and perspective that will be invaluable to your pursuits.
I hope this encourages you to say yes to the next business or social gathering. Your next opportunity may be hidden just within the conversation of the next person you meet.
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