Читать книгу Business Networking Simplified - Les Garnas - Страница 21

If this suits your personality, you are probably interested in a wide range of things and you are curious to find out as much as you can about them. You join groups and pursue activities because you like sharing ideas, information and experiences. You enjoy connecting with others as well as making a contribution to whatever you participate in. You might pursue something that may or may not have networking potential for you because you enjoy learning and interacting with others. You generally have an inquisitive nature. Therefore, you are prone to ask questions to find a common ground for discussion or a continuing relationship. This is an asset you should not overlook.

Whereas people having other networking energy styles might miss an opportunity because they do not probe beyond the surface of a situation, you are likely to uncover an opportunity that is not only a surprise to you but a good fit for your networking goals. Also, use your ongoing curiosity to advantage: When you meet a company colleague or outside business person, use your curious nature to ask questions to find common ground. Learn about the other’s capabilities and areas of expertise, and be sure to share your own. Certainly, people are more interested in people who are interested in them.

They will remember your sensitivity and caring, even though they might not ask you much about yourself. When this occurs (and it occurs more often than perhaps you would like it to), don’t be perturbed about their not asking about you—tell them about yourself anyway. Some personality types need to be led. Once you open the door to their learning things about you that you would like them to know, they are more likely to ask questions to learn more or to clarify what they have already heard.

Being interested in other types of personality, you will be careful not to brag about your accomplishments and things that are important to you. The simple difference between bragging and telling is that one who brags puts the conversational emphasis on how something that happened made the story teller feel. A good story teller, on the other hand, concentrates on relating the facts of the story, allowing listeners to reach their own conclusions about the value of the outcome.

So make connections—as many as you feel comfortable with. You never know when one of you might want to refer a networking contact to the other. Also, gravitate to individuals who not only complement your interests but who can increase awareness of your skills and abilities. People talk. If you project a positive self-image as someone who is skilled, experienced and concerned about others, you may find unsolicited offers and overtures coming your way.