Hey Charlie, ‘what’s in it for you?’

Once more I was asked why I manage to operate a not-for-profit social enterprise and not get paid for it. What did I … get out of it?

My answer is the same every time. I’m networking for the same reason as anyone else – to consolidate my business interests through reputation management.

I usually go on to explain … because, I can’t help myself …

During the early part of my career, I was always on the lookout for new business. My networking complimented my canvassing, marketing, and appointment-making. I would go to great lengths to make sure my company was visible. Yes, I even advertised! I was a hungry guy twenty years ago, I loved my business (still do) and I was in a hurry for my new business to sustain my lifestyle.

The great dilemma. Does my business serve a particular marketplace? Is it ready for me? Am I worthy?

I ask myself this same question most days.

As I became more established, once the business was known, ‘bizable’ I began to care about how others were contending with their passion to do well, to make ends meet. I could relate to the tough stuff.

We can be our own worst-best friends. The old catchphrase “Trust in yourself and your abilities, your choices, products, and services,” comes to mind. We are tested when in reality, during tough times, (yes, it can be tough) … we should remember to take a breath, step back and realise that as we flex our business muscle, we’re growing, galvanising our emotional capital each time we’re challenged or begin to question ourselves.

So by ‘hanging in there’ and continuing to extol the virtues of our offer, over time others in our network are witnessing our progress. The empathy develops and with familiarity and longevity, our reputation is enhanced.

My social enterprise, the not-for-profit network I provide on my side of town has introduced me to hundreds of people over the years. Many of these being start-ups (or solopreneurs), much the same as I was at some point. I’ve been lucky enough to witness many transformations from star-up to entrepreneur and with that I am introduced to new connections, new passion, each with their own story and plans for success.

I’m lucky.

By showing consistency and resilience, being ready to share my experiences and seek out advice, by helping others I now find I no longer need to be in such a hurry to find new business. New business comes to me, through referral.

People buy from people.