Networking 101 - Freebies

Networking 101 - Freebies

By Nikki Viljoen of N Viljoen Consulting (Pty) Ltd

Most of us like to get stuff.  “Freebies” are the order of the day and I doubt that there are many of us, who would actually turn a ‘freebie’ down.

But why do people hand out freebies?  It’s certainly not because they have a great love for us – how many of us, as individuals, actually even know the person who funded or ‘foot the bill’ for the freebie that we so enthusiastically receive?  Not many I suspect.

Actually they have an expectation – and that expectation is that they hope that we will enjoy the freebie and then because we have enjoyed it, we will begin to start purchasing it (as apposed to our usual brand). 

Then of course there are the freebies that are used for advertising purposes.  The reality of course is that they give you something for free and in using that item you are in reality advertising for them (think about every time you wear the t-shirt with the designer logo), and of course this means that you are endorsing them too.

So what makes you think that networking is any different?  Actually it isn’t.  As much as some people will send referrals your way, the expectation is that you will reciprocate and if you don’t, you need to understand that the referrals will just simply dry up altogether.

Successful Networkers usually believe in the ‘give to get’ type of philosophy.

On a personal level, I have found that the more I give, in terms of ideas and referrals, the more people give to me – not necessarily the people that I have given to, but the Universe always gives back and there are many ways in which to give back that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

As you go about your business, listen to what people want.  As you Network more and more, you will find that you will build up a data base, full of people who supply all sorts of products or services and when hearing what people need, you will be able to add value to yourself, the person who you are referring to and the person you have referred – that’s a serious win/win/win situation!

Pretty soon you will be forming strategic alliances and collaborations or joint ventures and partnerships and with each person that you form this kind of relationship with, you strengthen, not only your own business and their business, but you also strengthen the business of every person in your team or your database.

So go on – give a little – give a ‘freebie’, you will be on the road to getting a lot back in return.

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