I Hate Networking! If You Do Too, This Post is for You

I have to admit something to you.  I hate ... no, hate is too mild a word.  I abhor, loathe, despise, and detest networking. 

There, I've said it.  Now I feel better.

I'm not alone in this feeling, so who cares, right?  As a marketing and business development professional, it is a big deal because a stereotypical me would be out schmoozing almost every evening taking time away from my family.  A cardboard me would be focusing only on getting to know those people who could give me and my firm business.  The mystical formula of invocation would go something like: "To heck with the rest of humanity, I'm on a mission to sell, sell, sell ... so if you are not a prospect, you are dead to me."

Okay, this is a little extreme but when I read books or articles on networking, they strike me as just this shallow and callous and shortsighted.

So, I'm writing to and for all the people out there like me who hate what is seen as traditional networking.  However, you know that widening your circle is vital to your and your firm's success.  What do you do? 

The answer is simple:  Stop it!  Stop networking!!

Instead, remember a very simple rule: It is not about you!

That's right.  It is not about you.  Never enter any situation asking "what's in it for me?"  That is a losing proposition.  No one will want you around if all you are there for is your own self-interest.  Talk about boring and egotistical! 

Instead, look for groups or associations that dovetail with your interests and passions and where you can be of service.  Then, go ready to serve and serve humbly. 

That's the golden secret to effective "networking," if you want to call it that.  I prefer the term effective "servanthood."  Your efforts will benefit the organization and you, in turn, will become known as a person of character.  Your circle of contacts will rise exponentially and you will not only make contacts, but, more importantly, you will make life-long friends.  And you will be making a difference in the lives of others by serving the greater good.

Stop networking and start serving - it's just that simple.