Are you a network hypocrite?

I have been to a lot of ‘different flavour’ networking groups recently. I have begun to notice a type of networker that I have started to classify as an NH- Network Hypocrite.

These are members that on the face of it look like they are keen and willing to help others by the use of word of mouth marketing and networking, but when it comes down to the wire, they are simply there hoping to get referrals and they have little visible commitment to giving.

You can see the traits in them when they stand up to talk about their networking activity. They say a lot about doing very little. They thank people for turning up to the meeting; they thank any guests there may be at the meeting. They do this because they have done nothing since last week’s meeting to promote their fellow members.

Don’t get me wrong. We cannot be ‘on message’ all the time, but you can do things every week that allows your networking skills to become unconscious reflexes and help you to spot referrals.

I have devised a simple test for myself that I am using every week to make sure that I do not fall into the habits of becoming an NC.

1. Did I do more than one away Recon in the last three weeks? Did I make an effort to learn about others, as opposed to sitting in my office waiting for people to come to me?
   
2. Was I able to pass one genuine referral in the last month? If I didn’t, maybe I also didn’t do any Recons. There are a cause and effect between them.
   
3. Did I plan my last three presentations and deliver a message people could understand and relate too?
   
4. Did I promote one member of my group by sharing a social media post about them this week?