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Diversifying Your Contacts Means More Business Opportunities
Cleveland, OH (BlackNews.com) - How many times have you gone to a
function and all of the African Americans were clustered in a group?
The number one rule of social interaction is that people seek out
those with whom they share a common bond. African Americans are no
different.
While 'clustering' is harmless enough in our personal lives, it can
have a serious impact on our ability to build productive business
relationships. As business people, we need to make every effort to
nurture and establish a diverse network of contacts because it
provides us with greater exposure to resources.
Gaining access to groups outside of the African-American business
community requires reaching beyond comfort zones and exploring
different environments. There are many settings outside of work to
diversify contacts such as mainstream professional or trade
organizations, civic groups and continuing education classes.
Actively participating in these environments will highlight your
skills and expose you to new experiences.
George Fraser is a well-respected authority on the subject of
networking and building effective relationships. According to
Fraser, "As African Americans in business we cannot afford to limit
ourselves in any way. We need to seize every opportunity to nurture
and develop a diverse network of resources because it is critical to
business survival. While the success of our community as a whole
dictates that we effectively work with and through our own people,
we must also remain open and receptive to all people and
opportunities."
Fraser offers the following tips to help diversify your contacts:
- Let Down Your Guard. Establishing connected relationships
can only happen if you are open to the experience. People outside
our community often perceive African-Americans as unapproachable. Be
mindful of your attitude and body language in diverse environments.
If your objective is to meet new people you need to mingle and work
the room. Recognize similarities and use them to promote dialogue.
Remain focused on being a part of conversations rather than just
answering questions. Be engaging by elaborating on topics with
colorful examples and anecdotes. Realize that the other person wants
to feel like they have made a connection just as you do.
- Say It With A Note. Simply exchanging business cards is
not enough to make a memorable impression. A simple follow-up note
on nice stationary is an ideal way to say "nice to meet you" and
solidify a connection that you have made. E-mail is less personal,
but also an option. Be sure to include the name of the event and the
date so the person can easily remember you. Follow-up with a phone
call within a week to set up another time to meet. Everybody loves
to eat and drink! So, don't be shy about inviting someone out for
breakfast, lunch or coffee. Be sure to follow through on any
promises and next steps you outline.
- Build It Before You Need It. Do not expect to begin
diversifying your networking the moment you need a job or other
resources. Connected relationships should produce reliable resources
so when you need them they already exist. What's more, most people
are more inclined to help those with whom they already have a
history. Keep in mind, sharing resources is critical in developing
solid business relationships. It is also a good way to demonstrate
your knowledge, expertise and willingness to be a team player.
Expanding your contacts can be challenging but small steps can lead
to big rewards.
FraserNet, Inc.'s mission is to produce products and services that
teach and promote excellence and effective networking. FraserNet
publishes SuccessGuide Worldwide-The Networking Guide to Black
Resources. FraserNet Chairman & CEO, George C. Fraser, is the
best-selling author of Success Runs in Our Race and Race for Success.
In 2005 the Ford Motor Company and FraserNet will present
PowerNetworking 2005: Get Motivated. Get Busy. Get Connected. This
is the fourth annual professional growth and development conference to
be held June 8-12 in Cleveland, Ohio.
For more information, call 216-691-6686 x330 or visit
www.frasernet.com
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