How to build relationships without “networking” at NAMS6!

Yesterday, I released the NAMS6 workshop schedule. Today we’re talking about networking and how to really make connections. And tomorrow, we’re focused on the new MyNAMS membership site and why that’s important to your NAMS experience.

I hate networking.

Hate the concept.

Hate the schmoozing.

Hate the guy networking me with a fake smile and a business card in his out-stretched hand.

Years ago, when I was doing business development work (also known as sales) for a technology company, part of my job was to attend business networking functions.

I was a miserable failure at that because I seemed to have SALES stamped on my forehead. I WAS the guy with the fake smile and business card in hand.

So, imagine my surprise when one of my mentors told me that one of my strengths is building profitable relationships by connecting people.

In fact, the quote was,

“Obviously, you’re a great connector. You bring people together and help them be successful.”

Really? It didn’t seem obvious to me, but that’s why I solicit other people’s views. I’m usually wrong in my self-assessments.

So, if I’m such a good connector, what am I doing right and why do I hate networking?

It’s because I have wrong perceptions about what real networking is. Even the word “NETWORKING” feels manipulative, and I don’t like that.

My new perception (and the one  you should adopt to build real relationships at the NAMS workshop) is that I’m meeting people and making new friends.

I like that. I love discovering interesting things about people. The journalist in me gets a real charge out of asking a lot of questions.

I also like to find the commonalities between us. And when I say us, I mean between me and one other person. Building relationships is a duet that’s performed by two people, not a chorus.

I can’t build a relationship with a list. I can build a relationship with you.

And finally, I don’t want you to help me. I’m not there to figure out how to get my hand in your pocket. I listen for opportunities to help you.

Those are some pretty good guidelines there.

Mark Hendricks uses these exact techniques, as do all of the instructors. During NAMS, Mark is all about helping you and build a relationship by giving you 15 minutes of free coaching to go over your biggest issue.

Mark gives NAMS attendees a 15-min strategy review, or whatever else you want to talk about. He’s done this since NAMS3 and it’s been a huge success. Fifteen minutes of focused conversation can turn your business around or help you target the most important goals for your business.

He’s done this with others and in usually 15 minutes together he can put together an action plan that you can focus on to help you have the breakthrough that you’re looking for. Prior to your conversation with him at NAMS, you will write down what you are wanting to accomplish and what you believe are your three biggest obstacles keeping you from your goals. It runs like clockwork, so do not be late!

This has been a very popular event at NAMS previously and fills up quickly – take a look at the responses below.

Thanks so much for the 15-minute “Empowering” consultation you gave me.

I am still blown away at the amount of valuable information you gave me in such a short amount of time. I now have a whole new business model to work with and ways to implement the very things that have been holding me back.

I can’t wait to have another consultation with you in the future.

Securely yours,

Regina Smola
WPSecurityLock.com

Mark Hendricks is one of the real guys. He was able to understand and get to the heart of what I needed to do in less time than anyone I have ever met.

I only had a short time with Mark, but the way he helped me get clear in my head what I needed to do, is more than hours of listing to audios, watching videos and reading other peoples stuff has ever done. I am looking forward to working with Mark on other projects and finally breaking through the barriers that have kept me from success.

If you can get close to one person and get some of his insight – by whatever means possible – make it Mark Hendricks.

Tate Burns
TateBurns.com

Mark, I want to thank you so much for the 15 minute session.

What surprised me was that what you showed us, I thought I already knew – but then you made me realize I have not actually been DOING it!

You helped me realize that I must plan strategically, actually WRITE IT DOWN and then take action on the plan, and finish what I start.

You showed me how I need to be more disciplined and balanced to be able to achieve any type of long-term sustainable business success.

You also helped me to see different options for positioning my website and business to be more effective in making sales online.

I am daily using and referring to the planning tool you gave us, which is helping me stay on track and work toward my goals of a sustainable online business and more balanced and prioritized life.

Mark, I really appreciate your help, your wisdom and insight, your gift of teaching, your spirit of service and giving back, and most of all your heart and the inspiration that you bring to me and many others.

Thank you!

Sheri Dresser
FindingOpportunity.com