Interview with Michael Lovitch of The Hypnosis Network

The following advice on business networking comes from Michael Lovitch. Michael is the co-founder The Hypnosis Network -- which brings together the collective knowledge of some of the most experienced hypnotists in the world.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Michael Lovitch: Every interaction you have in business both purposely or by accident is business networking. A big mistake a lot of people make is that they view business networking only as a specific set of behaviors that they do at certain times to create more business through their contacts.

How you treat your co-workers is business networking. How you treat your customers is business networking. And yes; creating relationships with other professionals for mutual benefit is business networking also!

The importance of business networking then is huge. It is a small world after all.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Michael Lovitch: Stay narrow and keep it real. Developing deep relationships with people you genuinely like and trust is more effective in the long run than trying to “network” with everyone. I am not saying that you shouldn’t put yourself out there, but I am saying that if you spread yourself too thin, then you really don’t have a relationship with anyone.

Of course I recommend people I know and trust – that is a given. MORE IMPORTANTLY: When someone I know well recommends I work with a person they vouch for, I am very likely to work with them because I know my friend wouldn’t risk jeopardizing our relationship.

A personal example: I know and trust Andy O'Bryan (your partner on AudioMotivation.com). Therefore, I had no reservations about doing this interview because I know Andy only works with good people.

* You can visit The Hypnosis Network at www.HypnosisNetwork.com.

Interview with Chris Knight of EzineArticles.com

It's an honor to bring you Christopher Knight, Publisher and CEO of EzineArticles.com. He is also the founder of The EmailUniverse.com Network which is a leading provider of information, tools, and research for business professionals who wish to leverage email, email newsletters and email marketing campaigns to help build, grow, and promote their business.

Pay close attention to the ideas Chris has to share with you here and you're sure to learn some valuable ideas...

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Christopher Knight: Business networking is less about business and more about mutually-valuable relationships... because, businesses don't do business with each other, but rather at the core of every 'business deal' is actually a human relationship or a series of human relationships.

Human networking ("Networking" in my world means ethernet, :-) is about staying in touch with old business friends while actively engaging in activities that expands your circle of friends with influence. Sing this tune, "Make new friends, but keep the old... one is Silver and the other Gold!"

It's also about leadership... especially when the ice needs to be broken at an event.

The best networking opportunities happen when you are able to stay 100% authentic, being confident enough to be humble, and making every encounter with another person to feel valued. This is to have succeeded in networking... and I know this formula will attract everything you and your business will need in the coming years.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Christopher Knight: Attempt to quantify the size of your human network of friends or the quantity/quality of your networking activities:

You can use simple metrics, such as how many people are you "LinkedIn" with?

How many hours per month do you attend live events (both physical and virtual)? How many business cards do you collect from new friends made at these events?

How many private and public email discussion lists and/or industry-specific forums do you participate in on a regular basis (when I say 'participate', I mean meaningful engagement in the community rather than just lurking)?

For me, I make it a point to attend live in-person industry events for the purposes of networking, and use email & IM to follow up with all of the dozens of new contacts made at each event.

While the live events deepen my business relationships & friendships; the one thing that has blown away any networking vehicle of choice is: MY BLOG! There isn't a better or more efficient way that I know about than to blog every day or nearly every day -- thanks to the many insights, referrals and friendships that are made with a target market made up of my ideal stakeholders/clients.

Josh, your audience may be particularly interested in our 600+ "Business Networking" expert articles.

Visit Christopher Knight at Christopher-Knight.com.

Interview with Kyle Wilson of Jim Rohn International

The following ideas are from Kyle Wilson, president of Jim Rohn International. He shares some excellent advice on developing ones business networking skills -- that in turn leads to increased business and greater success.

Josh: Kyle, how do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Kyle Wilson: A perfect world is finding relationships that can create true win/win relationships. And that is what I look for, a truly reciprocal relationship where both sides benefit. Sometimes you like someone and would love to find a way to work with them, but there just isn't enough common ground to make it work.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Kyle Wilson: Having worked with Jim Rohn for the past 17 years, I learned early the philosophy of bringing value first and then good things will happen. So I always encourage any one new trying to make a break through in a new market, to come prepared to serve and pay your dues. But if you can be valuable, especially to valuable people, you will attract great things.

Visit www.JimRohn.com.

Interview with Chris Widener from Made For Success

I'm pleased to bring you the following ideas from Chris Widener. Chris is a leading keynote speaker and author -- he speaks on several personal development topics including leadership.

As you read through the ideas Chris has to share make a point to apply them in your own life. As a result you're sure to see great results.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Chris Widener: I define Business Networking as the art of building relationships with other business people who you can work with in mutually beneficial and reciprocal relationships. This is extremely important in our competitive business environment.

There is an old proverb that says "One can put a thousand to flight but two can put ten thousand to flight." Basically, two people working together multiply each others work so that they accomplish much more than they would if they stayed alone.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Chris Widener: I do two things: One, I try to meet the person at a Starbucks or something like that where we can talk. While there I just try to get to know them as a person and about their work. Second, I ask them what I can do to help them. I don't tell them how they can help me or suggest ways we can work together. I go into it with an attitude of a servant. What can I do to help them. That is the key. Let them know that you consider their interests more important than your own.

* Visit Chris Widener at www.MadeForSuccess.com.

Interview with Jeff Keller

Today we've got Jeff Keller -- Jeff is a speaker, seminar leader and writer in the area of motivation and human potential. He is also the author of the "Success From Soup To Nuts" Audio Program.

Pay special attention to what Jeff has to say about getting out of your comfort zone. It'll do wonders for increasing your personal network and expanding the opportunities that find their way into your life.

Josh: Jeff, how do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Jeff Keller: I define networking as the development of relationships with people for mutual benefit. In the business arena, networking offers the following benefits:

- Generates new clients or business leads
- Increases employment opportunities
- Helps to find people to fill critical positions
- Provides valuable information and resources
- Assists in solving problems, both personal and business

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Jeff Keller: At meetings and seminars, make it a point to meet different people. The tendency is to talk with those you already know. Don't sit with the same group at every gathering. While it's great to talk with friends and those you know for part of the meeting, you'll reap greater benefits if you make the extra effort to meet new faces.

Years ago, I was at a convention. At lunch, instead of sitting with friends, I sat down at a table where I didn't know anyone. As a result, I met someone who has not only become a great friend -- but who has also referred thousands of dollars of business to me over the years. It pays to get out of your comfort zone and to meet new people.

* Learn more about Jeff Keller at www.attitudeiseverything.com.

Interview with Laura Stack

Here's some advice that will do wonders towards making you a more effective business networker -- it comes from Laura Stack, MBA, CSP, President & CEO of The Productivity Pro, Inc. -- use it, apply it, and watch your business grow as a result.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Laura Stack: To me, Business Networking is allowing trusted colleagues to open up doors for you that you would never have been able to open yourself. It is far more productive to have someone recommend your services to other people than to attempt to get their attention yourself.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Laura Stack: A couple weeks following a successful speaking engagement, I send out a Reference Request letter to follow up with the client:

Thank you for your complimentary remarks about my program. I'm delighted the participants found value in my ideas, and I appreciate the opportunity to work with you!

My appreciation would deepen through the strength of your recommendation. I would really appreciate it if you could set aside five minutes to recommend any colleagues, suppliers, customers, or friends who have similar decision-making or decision-influencing authority as you do. Perhaps there's someone else in your own organization I could speak with about other meetings. I would be grateful for your gift.

I don't want to waste your time, so I've enclosed a simple, easy response sheet to fax back. I will use your name when I introduce myself and learn if they're interested in receiving information regarding my speeches, seminars, or educational resources. I will be sending your referrals a gift in your name as a way of introduction. If you have time to call them and introduce me first, that would be wonderful.

Thanks again for your confidence in me and for whatever support you can provide in helping us produce new business. I look forward to seeing you again in the future.

Appreciatively,

Laura Stack
President & CEO

* Learn more about Laura Stack at TheProductivityPro.com.

Interview with Jim Rohrbach - Success Skills Coach

Today's interview is with Speaker and Success Skills Coach, Jim Rohrbach.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking

Jim Rohrbach: Business Networking: Creating and sustaining mutually beneficial relationships between business owners for support, education and sharing of leads. The two types of leads shared are prospects (people the business owner wants to do business with) and centers of influence (people who are not prospects but can refer them).

Josh: And why do you feel it is important?

Jim Rohrbach: In the age of Do Not Call restrictions that has just about eliminated cold calling, Business Networking is the best way to generate well-qualified professional referrals. Most people think that networking is simply handing out their business cards at a Chamber of Commerce event and saying, "Call me if you know anyone who can use my services." (Not very likely to happen, which is why most people don't get business who do that.) Instead, it's developing partnerships with people who get to know you, like you, trust you, and understand who you're looking to meet -- and vice versa. It's a process that takes time to develop.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Jim Rohrbach: I have my coaching clients who go to Chamber events ask to exchange cards with people they hit it off with in a synergistic profession. For example, I have a lot of financial advisors who meet CPA's. When they get back to the office, I have them invite the potential business networking partner to get together in the following manner: "Nice meeting you yesterday Mr./Ms. CPA! Let's get together for breakfast/lunch/coffee. I'd like to find out more about your CPA practice, share more about what I do and see how we might be able to help each other -- what's your schedule like?" Who can resist a sincere invitation like that?

* You can learn more about Jim at www.SuccessSkills.com.

Interview with Joe Vitale

The following advice comes from the interview we did with author, speaker, and marketing strategist, Joe Vitale. Enjoy! ...

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Joe Vitale: Simply put, it's people helping people for mutual benefit. It's the ultimate win-win. It's important because it's the only way to make the world go round rather than have it limp along.

In other words, if you help someone, and they help you, we have a world coming from the heart, and not from hype; it's coming from love and not manipulation. When you help someone, you have to get out of your ego and think of them; when they help you, you have to get out of your ego and receive the gift. As a result, networking becomes a personal growth experience.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Joe Vitale: The average person trying to be a networker simply hands out business cards and collects others cards. A far smarter approach is to pay attention to what people are interested in and give them something that directly ties to their interests.

For example, when someone learned I loved magic, they found a magic trick and gave it to me. I never forgot it, or them. When someone learned I liked the music of Stevie Ray Vaughan, they found a rare CD and gave it to me. I never forgot him, either.

This is how solid networking relationships are built. You listen, and then you stay alert for ways to help people. As a result, they will be inclined to help you later, maybe without your even asking.

* Visit Joe Vitale at MrFire.com.

Interview with Joe Tye

The following advice comes from Joe Tye -- Joe is America's Values Coach. He is a nationally recognized speaker on values-based life and leadership skills. He's also the author of six books, including the international bestseller Never Fear, Never Quit: A Story of Courage and Perseverance.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Joe Tye: I define Business Networking as follows: "Business Networking is a systematic approach to expanding the circle of people who know the specific ways in which you can help them."

This is not just important, it's essential. Especially at the beginning of a relationship the primary, and perhaps the only, reason someone will want to connect with you is believing that in some way you can be of help to them. Your job is to let them know the ways in which you can be helpful, so they think of you when their need arises.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Joe Tye: When most people think of the word "networking," it conjures up images of working the room, passing out business cards at the Chamber PM. I think of this as Retail Networking. It's important, but not terribly efficient if you want to quickly expand the circle of people who know how you can help them.

Wholesale Networking, on the other hand, is the art of creating the feeling of a relationship with every individual within a larger group. You do that by speaking and by writing. I'm astonished at the number of professionals (managers, realtors, insurance agents, etc.) who can spend hours smoothly "working the room" handing out business cards, then get transformed into Elmer Fudd the instant they are asked to speak before a group or write a compelling article.

The CEO of a company that produces corporate training videos once told me that if you want to really reach an audience, you have to have s e x with them: you have to create a Significant Emotional eXperience. And the only way to touch people emotionally is by telling a story. The single most important skill for becoming a great Wholesale Networker is learning how to tell a story in a way that touches people emotionally. Stories sell.

When I'm giving a speech, I illustrate every key point with a story, and the stories relate back in some way to what I can do to help my listeners achieve their goals. Likewise, I use my e-publication Spark Plug to create relationships with people I will most likely never meet, but many of whom I can help by sharing the values-based life and leadership skills and strategies that we've developed over the years.

* You can learn more about Joe at JoeTye.com.

Interview with Jim Stovall

Recently we caught up with Jim Stovall, an accomplished keynote speaker and author. Jim is also the Co-Founder and President of the Narrative Television Network, which makes movies and television accessible for our nation's 13 million blind and visually impaired people and their families.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Jim Stovall: Business networking is the process of establishing win/win relationships. When people look for what they have to give instead of initially seeking what they have to receive, a valuable and permanent network can be formed.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Jim Stovall: The simple question "What's the biggest immediate need you have in your business?" ask it of every person you meet who is in business can revolutionize your networking potential.

* Visit Jim Stovall at JimStovall.com.

Interview with Bob Burg

Before I move on with the interview from Bob Burg I want to recommend that you re-read the ideas shared here a few times (just to make sure you don't miss anything). Even better would be to print it out and share it with your friends and colleagues -- doing so is likely to make you a hero in their eyes!

Now let me introduce to you Mr. Bob Burg...

Bob Burg teaches companies and individuals how to apply and perfect two skills dramatically important to personal and professional success. These are Business Networking and Positive Persuasion Skills. He is the author of: Winning Without Intimidation: How To Master The Art Of Positive Persuasion, Endless Referrals: Network Your Everyday Contacts Into Sales, and The Success Formula: Three Timeless Principles That Will Turbocharge Your Success And Dramatically Improve Your Life.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Bob Burg: Josh, I define Networking as simply, “The cultivating of mutually beneficial, GIVE and take, win/win relationships.” As you can see, the emphasis is on the ‘give’ part. And, the truly successful networkers understand (some intuitively and others via learning) that Networking is a situation in which those who give of themselves the most (and “giving” can include the sharing of information, referrals, suggestions, resources, books, etc. – anything that “adds increase” to the life and/or business of the other person) benefit big-time.

Those who Network correctly also seem to live by what I call “The Golden Rule of Networking” and that is, “All things being equal, people will do business with, and refer business to, those people they know, like and trust.” In essence, they know that when they are Networking correctly, they are in the process of building “an army of ‘Personal Walking Ambassadors.’”

The importance of Networking is in being able to utilize the inherent leverage of “know you, like you, trust you” relationships in order to serve more people, and do so more effectively. When you’re not having to concern yourself with prospecting, you can focus much more on delivering with excellence the product or service you provide.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Bob Burg: That’s a great question, Josh. You know, we’ve all heard that when in an initial conversation with someone, it’s best to focus on them rather than on ourselves. As such, I like to ask, what I call, Feel-Good Questions®. These questions, which happen to be excellent – and quick – rapport builders, are very effective. They are not invasive, intrusive or “prospecty” in nature. They are simply questions designed to put your prospect at ease, to make him or her feel good about themselves, about the conversation, and most importantly, about you!

So what are some of these Feel-Good Questions®.? Here are just a couple that will serve you every time:

Question #1: “How did you get started in the ‘widget’ business?”

I call this the “Movie-of-the-Week” question because most people love the opportunity to “tell their story” to someone. This, in a world where most people don’t care enough to want to know their story. Be sure and actively listen, and be interested in what they are saying.

Question #2: “What do you enjoy most about what you do?”

Again, you are giving them something very positive to associate with you and your conversation. This is much better then asking the alternative question, “So, what do you just hate most about what you do ... not to mention the wretched life you are so obviously living?” :-)

See how there is no pressure here to have to be slick or sharp? Wow – what a difference. But, now, let’s take it a step further.

You’ve begun to establish a nice rapport with your new prospect. You are focusing on him or her, as opposed to you and your awesome products or opportunity, as most salespeople do. This person is starting to feel good about you and has enjoyed answering your first two Feel-Good Questions®..

Now it’s time for, what I call, the “One Key Question,” and here it is:

“Pat, how can I know if someone I am speaking with would be a good prospect for you?”

What have you accomplished by asking that question? Two things; First, you’ve continued to establish yourself as being different from all others they meet who are in business, who only seem to want to know, “How can you help me?” People might not come right out and say that, but isn’t that what they imply when they hand the person 10 business cards, telling them to “keep one for yourself and give the rest to your closest friends.”? Instead, you are letting them know your interest is in helping them. And that is always acceptable to a person (so long as you are, and are perceived as being, sincere).

Secondly, since you are asking for help in identifying their prospects, Pat will gladly supply you with an answer. For example, if he sells copying machines, he might say, “Well, if you’re ever in an office and notice a copying machine and next to that copying machine is a wastepaper basket filled to the rim and absolutely overflowing with crumpled up pieces of paper, that’s a good sign that copying machine has been breaking down a lot lately, and that’s an excellent prospect for me.”

Not only does he feel great about you that you even asked, but the fact is, nothing builds trust and credibility with a prospect more than actually referring business to them whenever possible.

* You can visit Bob Burg at Burg.com.

Interview with Jason M. Gracia from Motivation123

I recently caught up with Jason M. Gracia, founder and president of Motivation123, and the author of "The Motivated Mind: A Complete Guide to Personal Change".

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Jason Gracia: Business Networking is the creating of relationships built upon trust and mutual respect between individuals who in turn become advocates of one another's work.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Jason Gracia: The most important aspect of networking to remember is sincerity. The aim must be to help others and not merely to improve your own standing. This will only lead to dismal results as well as personal resentment.

* You can learn more about Jason Gracia at Motivation123.com.

Interview with Jim Canterucci

The following advice comes from Jim Canterucci. He is an executive advisor, author, professional speaker, and CEO and founder of Transition Management Advisors.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Jim Canterucci: There are two facets of business networking to consider. One perspective is networking with people you are not currently working with.

Another perspective is networking within an organization you are currently doing business with and wish to expand your relationship. In both cases the idea is to begin to develop relationships in order to achieve mutually beneficial results in the future. Remember, seek to help first, without seeking anything in return.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Jim Canterucci: One important tip comes from my book Personal Brilliance. Everyone knows the common question when meeting someone new, "What do you do?" Ask one more question - "What else do you do?" This second question opens up the conversation and usually generates some fun, and most importantly, memorable interaction.

* You can learn more about Jim Canterucci at MyPersonalBrilliance.com

Interview with Greg Reid

The following interview is with motivational keynote speaker and author, Greg Reid. Greg runs the Millionaire Mentor Corporation.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Greg Reid: Well, if what the cliche' says is true... our network is our net'worth' then by definition, networking alone may be the greatest key to all success.

How many times has it been said, it's not what you know but WHO you know that matters?

Here's the point... look around and see who you are hanging around with.

I personally believe we are a direct reflection of the 5 people we associate with most and our income is an average of those people.

To change ones life, and or Networth... change those people and your life will change in conjunction.

Example: when I was in business, I sought the brightest minds I could find to surround myself with and simply did what they told me.

When I wanted to become an author, my friends became those at the top of the best seller list... and so on, and so on. Bottom line, if you wanted to be an "A" student, would you go and hang around with the failing ones?

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Greg Reid: The power of two - Always give two business cards when you meet someone and ask for two in return.

When they press for a reason why, explain that one is for your personal records, and the other is to pass along to someone that you may know that could use their product or service as well... request that they do the same. This builds a report right away, and they know you are out to help them while opening their options for helping you grow your alliances at the same time.

** You can visit Greg's web site at AlwaysGood.com

Business Networking Advice Mission Statement

Let me first start by welcoming you to BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

I'm honored that you've found your way here. The purpose of the site is to help you to become more successful by sharing with you an abundance of knowledge which will deal exclusively with Business Networking -- that is how to develop your personal networking skills, and as a result reach whatever level of success you desire in your life (both personally and professionally).

What Makes This Unique...

What I believe makes this site unique is that I'm going to be tapping the minds of many experts, from different backgrounds and industries -- each of whom happens to be part of my own personal business network (i.e. friends and colleagues).

Why do I believe knowing how to effectively network is so important you ask?

Well, let me tell you a bit about myself...

My name is Josh Hinds and I run several personal development training web sites (GetMotivation.com, among others). When I started out I had little more than the idea and strong desire to make a place for myself in the Self-improvement industry. Aside from that I was seriously lacking in know how and resources...

However -- Pretty much since day one I went about placing importance on getting to know, and developing win, win relationships with people inside my own industry -- as well as other areas of business.

In a nutshell -- I made business networking a priority in my life. As a result, I've managed to forge many wonderful working relationships with people who at one time I may only have known through one of their books, audio programs, or having seen them appear at a speaking event. I don't say this to come across as bragging -- not at all. In fact, the only reason I mention this is that I want to get the point across as clearly as possible to you that no matter what stage you find yourself in you can also benefit greatly from learning and applying the art of effective business networking. I've seen what making the commitment to developing this skill can do in both my own life, as well as the life of countless others.

So stay tuned, and do make a point to visit here often. It's my plan to bring you a treasure trove of business networking ideas and advice. With the help of the many wonderful folks that are part of my own network I have no doubt you're going to derive great benefit from taking the time to visit here often.

Keeping up with what's new here is easy. You can sign up for our RSS feed (on the right hand side menu) or you may choose to save us to your favorites or bookmarks. In return I promise to give you the best advice and tips on becoming a master networker.

-- To your networking success, Josh Hinds