Networking Observations
Terri DeBoo

Vol.6

In everything I have previously written, I have talked about getting involved and keeping at it until you feel a “payoff.”  Whether it’s a great lead, a great sale or just a great personal connection, that is what can happen with networking. 

I have opened my New Year by rolling off volunteer boards and beginning new relationships with other Boards or Committees. To me it’s always exciting to find out a little more of what a “new” group does and how I can fit in and help.

I am always surprised, and I don’t know why, to find that not everybody joins Boards or Committees to give…but, rather, to get!  Huh?

Of course you’d like to get a little something, but it will usually be in the form of personal satisfaction and growth. Or, it can help build relationships. There’s nothing like a 2:00 am drive around the city to post campaign signs or a chilly 6:00 am setting up tables for an event, to bring people together. There’s a kind of “being in the trenches” feel with personal relationships being formed.

Trust me, after working on a pet project together you and your comrades will take one another’s calls. But, to expect a payoff without giving anything is not networking!

I know, I know…80% of the work is done by 20% of the people.  But, I ask why?  Do you really think no one on the board or committee knows when someone hasn’t shown up to the plate?  I find that networking gives you the opportunity to get to know other business people in a casual setting when you are networking at a mutually fulfilling volunteer job. They get to see how you work, what your strengths and weaknesses are, and imagine how hard you would work if you were getting paid.

Volunteering is the best form of networking because it shows character faster than anyone could “sell” it.  So, I say volunteer at something you enjoy or want to learn. There are a million ways to volunteer here in Charlotte. You can sit on committees to do just about anything. With The Chamber there is volunteer positions in chamber chapters, public policy, education, Member Value, The Campaign and Business First.  Just ask and someone will point you in the right direction.

If you are not a member of The Chamber, you can read for the blind, donate time to the arts, classroom central or government committees. Ask those you admire what they do when they are not working. Or if they know of any interesting boards or committees they can share information about.

I challenge you to step on up and be part of the unpaid networkers that make this city one of the best for living, working and playing!