What if I told you there was one thing you could do to revolutionize the success of your networking efforts and increase your success beyond what you can imaging?

There is.

The crazy thing is, I have known this “secret” for years, but for some reason, it hasn’t been until the last year that I truly grasped it and began to put it into practice.  That is probably because it seems counter-intuitive.  So what is it?

Here’s the “secret”: When you network, whether through a simple introduction via a friend, at a networking event, on LinkedIn, or wherever else you find connections with people, your first thought should NOT be, “I wonder if I can sell this person my (whatever-you-do).”  It should be, “Out of my network of relationships, how can I help this person?  Who could best assist this person with an issues they are facing and help propel them forward.” And it must be done with a sincere and genuine desire to help.  People can smell phony from across the room.

This certainly goes against our grain.  If we spend our valuable time getting to know other people, we expect to see a return.  So, why do it?

Here’s the secret behind the “secret”: When your primary interaction with someone is seeking for a genuine way to help them, you will find that you quickly establish trust with that person.  You will also be investing in them such that they will desire to reward you.

If, like me, you have known the “secret” for a long time, but are not yet practicing it, modify your behavior now!

At your next networking function, but looking to help those you meet by finding out their issues and introducing someone to them that can help.