Networking 101 - Reciprocity Rules

Networking 101 - Reciprocity Rules

By Nikki Viljoen of N Viljoen Consulting (Pty) Ltd

Dr. Renate Volpe, in her nugget cards entitled “Networking Tips” says:

“Reciprocity is vital in successful networking.”

Right on the money again Renate.

I am still, after all this time, amazed at some people.  As those that know me be now know, when I get a business card, it is an opportunity.  I send off a mail to the person who gave me the card, telling them a little bit more about me and then I follow that up with a call to set up an appointment.

The whole idea of the meeting is for BOTH of us to share a little bit more about who we are and what it is that we do.  It’s to explore synergies and see how we may be of assistance to one another and it is also an opportunity for BOTH of us to give each other referrals.

You would probably not believe me if I told you the number of people who are only interested in telling me what it is that they do and who they need to be put in touch with.  I sit there is wide eyed amazement!

I mean come on people, I know that it is better to give than to receive, but I also need to put food on the table!  I mean do they really think that I give up an hour of my time to listen to what they need and how I should connect them  to all and sundry in my database, and they don’t even think about perhaps connecting me to someone in their data base?

Ok don’t get me wrong, I do try and assist where I can, but as they continue to contact me to get referrals from me, and never give me a referral – well at some point the pages of my database are going to close and when that happens, no amount of prying will get them open again.

As much as I need to give in order to receive, so to do you need to give in order to receive.  It’s common courtesy and good manners.  It’s also sound business sense.

So go on, give as much as you get – all that will happen is that you will get even more! 

There is plenty, actually an abundance, to go around.

For more information on Renate, please visit her website at http://www.drrenatevolpe.co.za

Nikki is an Internal Auditor and Business Administration Specialist who can be contacted on 083 702 8849 or nikki@viljoenconsulting.co.za