So we all know that networking is the key to landing our next job or client.

We hear it all the time.

But what exactly does networking mean?

Does it mean making connections on LinkedIn? Or perhaps on Facebook and Twitter?

Or does it mean morning coffee or evening drinks with the perfect contact?

Perhaps it is the exchange of business cards at a conference (for reference, my previous post outlines 10 Features of a Memorable Business Card).

The answer includes all of the above.

However, those examples focus more on the means to exchange information, and less about the development of a relationship.

Last week, I received a list of networking definitions at an Ignite Speed Networking Event (compliments of the Gulla Group).

The author is anonymous, but the definitions speak volumes.

15 Ways to Define Networking

NETWORKING IS…

1. Remembering to call to say thanks

2. Calling to say it didn’t work out, but thanks for the referral

3. Being a source of information

4. Keeping a confidence

5. Sharing information

6. Being savvy enough to know the difference between networking and name collecting

7. Delivering on your promises

8. Having a plan

9. Keeping in touch

10. Following up on leads

11. Being willing to say yes to a request

12. Knowing when to say “no”

13. Extending your contacts

14. Remembering your roots

15. Being a friend

Does anybody really know the art of networking?

Well, there are some good resources out there.

Here are five books I recommend:

The Go-Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann

Go-Givers Sell More by Bob Burg and John David Mann

Networking Like a Pro by Ivan Misner

The Referral Engine by John Jantsch

The Power of Who by Bob Beaudine

(For more information on the principles of The Power of Who, please reference You Already Know Everyone You Need to Know)

What does networking mean to you?

What other resources do you recommend?

Thanks,

Brent