I was asked recently to speak at a conference here in Indianapolis. They told me they really didn’t have money for speakers, they were a not for profit organization for medical students called, Student National Medical Association. I was reluctant,to take on the project, after all it takes a lot of time to prep for a good program even if it is only 55 minutes long. But the program was local, at the J.W. Marriott, it was only 55 minutes and it was on the basic networking skills they need to practice, so I said yes, I would do it.

I am glad that I did. These students were hungry for the knowledge. Their young heads are full of facts, numbers, and all kinds of medical information. What no one has bothered to teach them is how to build and maintain a network that will help them find a job when they leave school.

My information was basic, geared for students, but the questions and comments that the students had after the program were both heart warming and disappointing. Universities let our students down in a big way when it comes to helping them build a network that will help them find jobs.   Statistically 85% of all jobs are found thru a personal recommendation from someone in our network. That being said, our students often start in a deficit as they have no network.

When students enter the university they should be given a class on networking. From the day they start they should start the process of building their networks. Every person they meet should go into their database, the professors who teach them, the mentors who help them, the students they connect too. Every part-time job they work is an opportunity to build relationships that will help in the future.

The students on my workshop asked me over and over again, why hasn’t anyone told us this, and how can I reconnect with some people who have really helped me? I gave them tips individually on how to reach back and reconnect, but I could not answer the first question. I don’t believe that universities across the country understand the importance of or the basics of building a network. Maybe, it is time that we reach out to our universities and help the students. It is a tough economy, there are fewer jobs to be had for the graduates, they need every edge they can get, and it has to start before they are ready to graduate.

I am glad that I decided to take the speaking engagement, and I feel blessed that I got to meet such wonderful students, doing great things

The world becomes a smaller and friendlier place when you network well. As a professional speaker I find there are times that I am gone for long periods from my home and office. When I am home it is only for a day or two to pick up a clean suite and catch another plane. When I get back for the next 2-3 days I feel like I have road head, tired and unable to fully focus and concentrate,such is the way today. That being said, I wouldn’t change a thing! I meet the most amazing people when I am traveling and networking. Last week in California I had the opportunity to share the stage with Dr. Ivan Misner, father of modern networking and Lindsay Adams, President of the International Speakers Association. Later I got great feedback from both of them on how good my presentation was, as well as how I might improve it for the next time. This is the kind of coaching and feedback you can’t pay for!

I had dinner with Lindsay & Debra Adams form Australia and Phil & Michelle Bedford from Dubai where I learned about some of the local customs and laws as well as the weather and best times to visit their countries. Both were more than willing to make connections, give feedback and share contacts should I need them.

In Florida, and the NACM National Conference I met a team from the UK who are looking to expand their business into the US. We had a wonderful discussion about the differences between business in the U.S. and business in the U.K. and how we might be able to help one another. Later I met Danielle Austin, a national expert on Export Letters of Credit for companies who are sending their goods overseas. We had a great dinner together since we were both there alone as presenters and learned how much Danielle loves what she does and how good she is at it.

In Canada, I met John Sawyer, President of the Oakville Chamber of Commerce, and the Mayor of Oakville. Paula Hope a trainer and speaker put on a fantastic event that I was able to present at, she and her team went above and beyond the call of duty. While there I met Christel Wintelsl, BNI Director and National Franchise Owner for Canada again. I was able to spend time and build a great relationship with Christel and Paula which adds great value to my network.

So, why do I tell you all this and why do you care? Simple, networking is a 24 hour a day activity, anywhere you go. I could have chosen to hide out and work in my room at each of these events but I chose to network, to meet new people, to find ways to connect and build the relationships.

Networking is not just about going to events and meetings, it is about connecting with people exactly where they are and asking “How can I help you.” Good Networking is about listening to what others are saying, and not being the authority in the room. Good networking is about leaving your ego at the door and be willing to be present in the moment with the people around you. Good networking is a wonderful way to build not only your business, but your life.