GAINS

I come across a lot of great networking information each week. This week I'd like to share some information about GAINS, from a great networking group that I belong to called BNI. These are questions to ask yourself, as well as your peers. How can you help someone grow their business? How can you grow your own business? Here's a good start:

G - Goals

These are the business and personal objectives you want or need to meet for yourself or the people who are important to you. Refining your goals will help you achieve them. The best way to build a relationship with someone is to help them achieve their goals.

A - Accomplishments

People like to talk about the things they are proud of. Some of your best insight into others come from knowing what goals they have already achieved. Know what has worked for you in the past, and apply those accomplishments to the future.

I - Interests

Your interests can help you connect with others. These can be personal things like reading, hiking, visiting wineries, or business interests. People like to spend time with others that share the same interests. Networking with these people with help strengthen your relationship.

N - Networks

Build multiple networks, both formal and informal. These can be organizations, institutions, groups (like BNI), or company's or individuals that you associate with.

S - Skills

The more you know about the talents and abilities of the people in your network, the better equipped you are to find and refer business. The road goes both ways. The more you explain your skills and services to someone, the higher the chance of them passing you qualified referrals. If they do not fully understand your business and what you have to offer, they will not be able to work on your behalf.

Take some time to think about these items. Is there room for some adjusting in your networking ways? Do you need to set some personal and business goals? How can you help others help you?