What is the difference between an advanced networker and a novice
Today we are going to be talking about the difference between an advanced networker and a novice networker. Before we post up the Coach’s answer to the question we’d like to field this question to the community. What do you think separates the two? Do you believe yourself to be an advanced networker? Or do you think that you are just a novice at networking and looking to learn?
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Because Coach Powell is very community driven, every day we are going to feature a different non-profit as the “non-profit of the day”. Today we are going to feature the Centreville Community Foundation which is a local organization that supports and builds up the local community around Centreville VA. You can find out more about CCF at: http://www.centrevilleva.com/ .
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The novice is one who is new to networking, has no plans or goals about the “what” they want to accomplish from networking, including what network group(s) would best be suited to them.
An advanced networker has “worked” through these beginning steps, defined goals and has a commitment to the growth and development of the chosen group.
I think an Advanced Networker has truly gotten past the “WIIFM” mentality (What’s In It For Me?) when meeting a new person. They truly listen, take note, and then follow through afterwards by linking their new friend to people who will make a difference for that person, according to what the Advanced Networker HEARD him say (because he was Listening and not worried about what he was going to say next). A Novice, on the other hand, even though he may KNOW that he should listen carefully, at some level is still fighting with the WIIFM attitude and therefore doesn’t pay attention like the Advanced Networker does.
novice networker vs. advanced networker . beginner vs. experienced. let us not cast aspersions on the beginner. we were all there at one time (or are somewhere along the journey). as sue said, the advanced networker is watching and listening for how she can help others. how can she connect people and needs? as barb said, the advanced networker is prepared with a plan having done her homework and having set some goals. in addition to all this, the advanced networker is like an improv artist who can handle anything that comes at her with poise, confidence and a little humor. finally, an advanced networker dramatically connects so that she makes a lasting impression which leaves the other person wanting to get to know them better.
Ritzya,
I can’t believe this, but as I read your topic I can actually SEE you speaking it. That truly is amazing
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To all of you, thanks for the input. I actually was the person which asked this question at Coffee Tea You and Me, and to be honest, the thing that I was looking for when I asked the question was a set of measurements which I could use to say “ok, I’ve graduated past being a newbie at this.” I was really looking for something measurable.
I think that you guys hit a few of the key points right on the head. A beginner networker often confuses networking with sales. Thats why they are always looking to “hunt” the person who is standing in front of them instead of seeing that person as someone who they will need to build and sustain a relationship with.
Whatcha think? Coach Powell’s answer to this question is not coming until Friday so we have plenty of more time to really break into this topic. What are some measurements which we could use to judge if someone has passed the point into becoming an advanced networker?
God Bless,
-Dan
I have found that I must be intentional to be a good networker. Many times after getting back to the office after a networking meeting, I have much to do to catch up so I neglect to connect people who want to be connected. Good intentions won’t get me anywhere if I don’t act upon them. I am becoming better at connecting people to people to whom they want to be connected. It takes time; it takes time to even send an email to connect people, but if I want to be a good networker, I need to set aside time to do that. I need to go through my list of contacts and see whom that person wants to meet. I have to be intentional and set aside time to help people if I want to be a good networker.
Oh wow…. that is SO true! I’ve done a terrible job in that regard, but as the Coach always says “Follow-up is everything!”
Speaking of which…. I have a virtual introduction I told someone I’d do *putters off to do that*.
God Bless,
-Dan
I think the biggest difference between the novice and the advanced networker is attitude. If you think of networking as fun work and remember that others want to meet you as much as you want to meet them and that they will benefit from meeting you, then it becomes something you want to do for people. It is great fun getting your different contacts together. I love being the “go to” guy. I think a newbie can be an advanced network if they naturally love people and have the right attitude.
[...] What is the difference between an advanced networker and a novice 7 comment(s) [...]
A novice attending an event is like a kid in the candy store overwhelmed by all that is there. Perhaps collecting cards at every turn and telling everyone what they do. An experienced networker knows that relationship building and listening are the key elements and they are there to find and grow relationships with key partners. They have tools in their toolbox to help others. One tool may be to introduce like minded partners to each other or to invite someone to another event.
[...] I was getting myself into. As Marvin and a few others established in the first day’s answer, the difference between a novice and an advanced networker, I was shooting from the hip and was just happy to see any [...]