It was the end of our regular network breakfast and I was about to leave the room when Gail stopped me and asked:
“Do you think you and I could have a one-to-one, Charlie?”
“Always happy to chat,” came my reply as we headed for the nearest empty seats. “How can I help you?” I asked.
Gail and I chatted for a few minutes, she has a new business franchise and it’s early days in networking. I could see she was finding her feet, although, something seemed to be bothering her.
“It may sound odd Charlie, it’s that I don’t know how to ask for help.”
She chuckled when I replied. “My parents always told me not to talk to strangers …
“It’s not unusual to be reticent about asking for help. Some mistakenly feel it is a weakness and choose not to ask for professional opinions at all? Remember, not every established business started out with a strong reputation.
The difference between a start-up and an established business? It’s a developed, thriving referral pipeline built up over time. Once the reputation is established, most new business comes through recommendation, word of mouth.”
“If I were in your shoes, Gail …”
She interrupted me. “No, I get it now Charlie. I need to show my vulnerability as a new business?”
“Yes, show them you are human, and most importantly, give the network the time to work …
Demonstrate to colleagues what you can do with their help. Stick around after the meeting, and swap stories. Like today, share some time. Be with your referral partners regularly. Show them you value their support, by making yourself available and give ‘the room’ the chance to help you … Once people know you, through the one-to-ones you’ll find you won’t need to ask for help.
Some struggle in the early days of networking, Gail. It’s only natural to compare yourself to others, more established in business. Because that’s where most aspire to be.
Success comes to those who understand that ‘business is personal.’ “
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