Networking Basics: 8 Tips to Networking Without Being Fake

Ever feel like networking is dull, boring, or fake? Networking basics are vital to learn if you’re going to grow your business, but it doesn’t have to suck. If you’re an entrepreneur who wants to know how to network with people - better, faster, easier, more efficiently, more enjoyably - you’ll love this video. You'll learn eight simple strategies for making true, long-lasting, and authentic connections outside of boring hotel conference rooms.
Networking shouldn’t be an event. Consider it an ongoing, organic process of building relationships with people you actually like. Even better? No name tags required! Make it a lifelong practice of meeting new friends that you can contribute to.
Here are eight networking tips to do it the RIGHT way:
1. Focus on giving vs. getting.
2. Be present.
3. Listen more than you talk.
4. Think long term vs. short term.
5. Don't overcommit or feel guilty.
6. Be honest.
7. Take action immediately.
8. Only go to things that excite you.
C'mon over to www.marieforleo.com/blog/netw... for more discussion about this episode.
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Susan Cain Shares 5 Secrets to Building a Career & Networking as an Introvert: • Susan Cain Shares 5 Se...
How to Persuade Twice As Many People in 3 Seconds: • How to Persuade Twice ...
Playlist: Develop Habits for Success: • Develop Habits for Suc...
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[@marieforleo]

Ready to up your networking game? Use these quick links to catch Marie’s 8 rules for networking without being a fakey-pants: 1:15 - Focus on giving vs. getting. 1:35 - Be present. 2:37 - Listen more than you talk. 2:56 - Think long term vs. short term. 3:30 - Don't over commit or feel guilty. 3:48 - Be honest; don’t commit to anything you don’t want to do. 4:09 - Take action immediately on your promises. 4:30 - Only say yes to things that excite you. What’s next? Watch this playlist to develop habits for success: kzbin.info/aero/PLAxUz0wM51b9Xu5cBwKUPV2PjPF1wQmGN

[@cameronroe7051]

Great tips! Another tip would be to "be positive". It sounds simple but is sometimes forgotten. Even if you disagree with someone, try not to turn a first impression into a debate or sour moment. Try to avoid the conversations you don't agree on and find a common interest that you can share some advise on, question, or brainstorm about. I've met the best people when my energy in the room was at a high point, positive and present.

[@Mason-ir3yi]

Remembering names is one of the most important things for networking. Calling someone by their name makes people attentive and want to listen. Here is an example. Think back to when a teacher is calling attendance and somebody is not paying attention in school. When their name is called they automatically look up, unless they are passed out ;) .That is because YOUR name is an instant trigger to get your attention. Knowing someone's name will allow you to get your message across (hardest part). It also makes things personal and people are less likely to walk away from this individualized call to their attention because it would almost feel rude to do so. The rest is up to you :).

[@pvtlyf5336]

Thank you for your advice, this was helpful for me

[@Mason-ir3yi]

@@pvtlyf5336 I am glad this could help in a small way Pvt Lyf. Thanks for the comment!

[@GenevieveColmer]

Such great tips Marie! I used to hate networking events until I attended one last year that was a game changer. I had just started my yoga teacher training and decided to attend a wellness professionals networking event. Well as soon as I walked in, I felt like i had finally found my tribe. People were authentic as was I (I felt like I could truly be myself) and that is actually where I met my current business partner Jennifer Jane Young I can't even imagine what I would be missing out on if I hadn't gone! I think that one of the tricks is to be selective of which networking events you go to. Try to pick ones where people with similar values and interests will be present. For example, I don't just go to any entrepreneur event, I will attend those where there are mostly women (my "people" as well as our target audience) and where there are creative rather than corporate participants.

[@ahainjay]

I just went to my first networking event two weeks ago. My goodness, these tips would've been nice to have then! I encountered a lot of fakey pants tactics from other people I talked to. I couldn't bring myself to reciprocate that behavior but I didn't know how to else to approach talking to people like this, so I was pretty quiet most of the night. But now I know for the next time around! Thanks Marie! Nice cameo, Ms. Vargas.

[@BogdanaYakovenko]

The best networking has happened to me from just meeting people 101 for a coffee and having genuine conversations. Even when we had some idea for a collaboration in mind, conversations are deeper and better when you start on the personal level first. Thank you for this video!

[@WLNS4Life]

I find networking to be less inauthentic simply by keeping the conversation as natural as possible by finding common ground, relating on multiple personal levels

[@evaforde]

I've learned over the years to apply the very tips you suggested. I appreciate, however, the reminder about being totally present. I, most times, have great networking experiences because I commit to being authentic in every encounter. Great points as always, Marie. Thanks so much!

[@DimitriBianco]

Good general tips. You should cover more on networking outside of networking events as that's where most networking should occur.

[@ranger882]

Wow....this is great stuff....thank you!

[@saffiyahissoapy]

I've always believed that my personality is a little too reserved to be an efficient Network Marketer..However after genuinely understanding and embracing your valuable tips I feel much better equipped to rock!!! Thank you Marie!

[@TheCateNet]

Great list and I agree completely. Organic is a perfect word. It happens one person and at a time and by being authentic, trustworthy and dependable. You totally got me with #2 ... I blushed as a vision of me in the booth looking OVER the shoulder of the person talking to me ... didn't even realize I was doing it. I walked away with something to change. GREAT JOB and thank you.

[@bettypipia8603]

Thank you for these great tips Marie. I was planning on attending more networking events and these tips will be invaluable.

[@CaliKess]

Flipping brilliant. All of my business is about networking and I have been having difficulty. This totally gave me renewed energy and great tips!

[@XAudreyS]

Thank you for your amazing and inspiring emails Marie!!! I recieved it and read it when I needed to hear it the most.

[@maceyloubrown]

LOVE these tips as well! Thank you, Marie!

I’ll try this on tuesday next week. I’ll come back here to tell how it worked for me. Thank you so much Marie 👌

[@Grooovie725]

Hi! I'm about to do a speed networking event for my organization and I'm looking forward to sharing your video 4 best networking practices. I'm excited about what you spoke about and I think it would be so beneficial to my community.

[@fabulouslindalee]

Number 8 is great advice! Why do we spend our time going to events we find miserable?

[@rubendigital4786]

Thanks for the awesome tips, Marie. Loved the one about thinking long-term rather than short-term.

[@BYLB]

Great tips Marie! I would add , "be yourself" Don't act like a big shot if you are not. An anecdote, going to an event (where i made 0 clients), I parked and started talking to someone (who was not going there). Just because I was genuine to him, he became my client. (FYI: Aft only 1 session, He closed a big bus prop RE deal in 90210, got a car, and slowed in his smoking!)

[@ALZulas]

I think one of the best things I've ever learned about networking, is that if you really want something from someone, don't try to butter them up with "you're amazing" or things to start with. Just ask, and then you can tell them how awesome you think they are after and they'll know it's real and not just a front to try and get something from them.

[@guyzino8992]

I've been networking for a while and all your points are true. Good, common sense advice. Thanks!!

[@gwendai8140]

This is sooo amazing! I just start networking these days. These tips so far sound really useful. I'll try them :)

[@rebeccaharrison9142]

I LOVE your channel .. you inspire me every day Marie .. incredible advice delivered in a super fun and goofy way .. so frikken AMAZING !

[@LIVdaBrand]

The best advice I would say is to not overthink it and be honest. Even they can help or not. Eventually help comes around full circle.

[@SueMiller]

As always great tips! Thanks Marie.

[@LarisaDiana]

I loved this video, Marie. Thank you so much for the great pieces of adviceoffered by you and your guests.I am a painter and my networking has to be authentic, smart and business oriented. Art is not easy to sell, expecially in Spain these days, expecially for a young and still unknown artist, expecially if I want only costumers who really like my art and feel inspired by it, buy it. Passion and authencity make the trip:)Thank you.

[@SandraMcCarty]

Great tips Marie, I have an event this evening and will be sure to use them.

[@lsgfrenchie]

The last 10 seconds are funny, had to watch that part twice ;) and my fave networking tip is: "give"

[@litawi7869]

Love you! Great tips, good points. I'm going to use them and subscribe!

[@aashrya]

Thank you so much the great insight. These things seems so trivial and we often end up doing them, but in really they are Key to having conversations and networking.

[@The7DayWeekend]

Great content about networking being a lifelong activity - becoming known as a great networker by giving and connecting others is the only mindset for success.

[@MrTrevorrrr]

Hi Marie, I am so pleasured I came across you on KZbin! You are so inspiring and the information your present is simple to understand, punchy and very relevant and helpful. Thank you. Regarding where I made long term contacts is through events such as salsa dancing. You really get to connect with people. (literally) haha over time and you build great friendships and contact. Its also a really nice way to meet you next girl or boy friend. haha Love your work! Trevor

[@themeditationqueen]

Great video! I love that number one was giving not getting. So true! :)

[@JRevengeZzz]

"Be honest" and then coming up with another fake excuse. I mean the person knows that you dont want to see them for a coffee if you say that but it has nothing to do with your actual schedule, because if you wanted, you could make time for them. I critisize that when you emphasize on honesty, because I agree its super important and live from a space of direct and honest communication so.. Other than that, the video was fantastic and really well summarized, i loved all the points, thank you for the value you add! All the best

[@AmericPet]

Hey hunny! Thank you very much for this episode. It reminded me that networking is about having fun. With people. I go out networking with an attitude to have fun and be awesome. How I do this is by remembering my confidence. I can be having a conversation in a group of six engaging every person or sitting back comfy to let somebody tell me about their lives and barely open my mouth. Networking isn't about drudgery it's about engaging with real live people. My best network connections were people I simply got along with.

[@indianboy8752]

bn

[@ianlewer2328]

Excellent advice on networking where you enjoy networking....and making real friendships.

[@MarcelleAllen]

Loving the new typography you're using! Great tips Marie, thanks!

[@PlexusSlimRockinPinkDrink]

Great video! Expert advice! For me, the best networking happens, and best connections are made when I genuinely relax and "allow" myself to have fun with it...

[@mmadu-okaforemeka6070]

Learnt a lot listening to you. I am going to be 100% fully present in any conversation from now on and I will GIVE, GIVE, GIVE

[@leonhart03]

One thing I have experience with networking is that a lot of great things can come from the _extended_ network, rather than the people you are immediately connected to. For example, an in-law made a suggestion for a career change I had been mulling over. Turns out, it was an amazing idea, and I am running full-speed with it! I know, it's a bit of an extreme case of networking, seeing that it came from getting married to my network, but it's still an example of secondary networks in action!

[@KaiyaKramer]

Finally another woman with great advice it’s about giving!!!! 👌🏾

[@jazzietheboss]

This was very helpful. I am working on getting out of my comfort zone and meeting new people. I am a real estate investor with a new company. Meeting and making business connections and lasting relationships are very important. Thank you.

[@GingerReichl]

Great advice, as always. Everything in life should be about giving, not getting!

[@kathryntooker1607]

Great and implementable ideas for successful relationships!

[@michellekeith6657]

These are great tips! Thanks so much for sharing.

[@281Twiggy]

This was very helpful. Thank you for posting it.

[@bernardbarbour]

I'm giving a networking class today and was looking for more ideas to add to my training. Thank you.

[@CarolinSoldo]

Thank you for the amazing tips!

[@JayneRenee]

Great advice on networking.

[@SEOSlammer]

Super rad video. Thanks for the fun and sound advice Marie!

[@mypagedotcom5804]

It is important to stay true to your words. Also, doing the extra mile can cost you a little bit of a hassle but its effects will definitely give you something you will not forget. Working while others are asleep can be advantageous because in the world of the Internet, presence is the key.

[@BlogginBrandi]

Informative with some demonstrations, love it! Yes, no one wants to be or feel like a "Fake Pants". Great video Marie!

[@wajidsheikh6208]

Superb !! Love to watch n listen your videos.

[@nascon1]

Great information I will start focusing on them. Thank you Marie

[@awkwardnetworker2054]

Great tips... Great advice!

[@JoeKawano]

Networking tips: “We have two ears and one mouth so we can listen as much as we speak.” -Marie Forleo… Hey, Ms. Forleo, I love these videos! (Can you put your tweetables in the description(s) so we can just copy and paste them?)

[@marieforleo]

You're so welcome, Betty!

[@AsenaDirican]

Hello Marie, Thank you. there is rare video on Networking event subject and yours is one of the best. You are right networking is not a full day activity in a hotel conference hall. But this is also reality of business life today. Can you please elaborate how should we react to people just aim to distribute as much as business card possible ? they approach , smile and after asking how are you , they pass the business card . Or as you showed even you intend to listen them their eyes are watching for others. How should we act then? After an event finalized in a hotel , I came back to my room with bunch of business card. that I hardly remember who is who. How can we organize AND participate more efficient networking events ?

[@monjier]

I've only been to 8-10 networking events this year but before I attended my first I decided to start a networking business. The secret to truly effective networking is you want it to be natural and organic. Networking should never be forced; and you, in my opinion, should never do business with people you do not like. I can imagine that some of the networking was so stale, forced and fake that you ended up with tons of business cards. What you want to do is if someone gives you a business card and you don't like them as a person, just throw it in the rubbish; that's not true Networking. But if you talk to someone in a way where you're talking to them as a friend and you find that you like them as a person, then it's appropriate to ask for their details or to give yours. You DON'T want to do business with people you do not like, but you will want to do business with people you do.

[@northcountyrealestate]

Great advice Marie. I'll share with my friends.

[@ShawnStrok]

Thanks Leslie: WE are doing a MEGA Networking event at our Women's Success Network meeting next month and your tips will be great to share!

[@MelissaDiMaggio]

Awesome! Great tips as always.

[@JonathanTichich]

Great Advice. I appreciate your work..

[@semt9]

Got a networking event+seminar on tonight- my first! This is helpful for calming the jitters :) Question- I met a potential contact (read: possible future employer! lol) in Dec and i'm going to contact them by this weekend. That's about 2 months ago. As a rule of thumb how long is too long to go before I contact someone I met again?

[@chris-ui2nt]

I'm a member of BNI (Business Network International) and would also recommend it as another networking avenue. I get most of my business from it.

[@unclemikmusic]

Thank You Maria for the networking tips, I enjoy watching your videos and I am inspired as an aspiring entrepreneur. Blessing Maria....Uncle Mik

[@danielm3977]

That's heck of wisdom. Thank you Marie.

[@dizlee86]

great tips Marie!! thank u

[@mdkiswani]

Great advice. Thanks Marie!

[@mindfulstrategybydanagarne2426]

Great tips! Thank you Marie!

[@PatB5169432563]

Good tips... I do this already. Just one thing. I have to practice focusing on the person who may be saying some very boring things...

[@vkjaswal]

thanks for such a nice video!

[@melarosa86]

very helpful thank you Marie!!!

[@amyvanmeijl]

I love these tips and I've done them for years. What I've noticed though, is that I end up in conversations that are not interesting or fully one-sided (ie. the other person goes on and on) and I leave networking events feeling drained, uninspired and like I wish I had the time back in my life. Is that what I should be expecting or is it actually meant to be more balanced? (and if so, what can I do to initiate that balance?)

[@ChristianMasson]

Very good tips ! thank you.

[@lesalgado1]

Cool, this is a really good value added channel. I used to do Inc.com and read their website. They had good insightful articles but started falling off around 2012. They are now just another clickbait farm. Glad their still well-grounded people out in the business world putting out content like this!

[@SofoniBeats]

I really enjoyed the tip about looking around. I tend to do that because I am an introvert.

[@azrensoldvideos]

I totally know what you mean, that was such a great video! :))

[@courtneykramer2013]

Thank you for all your videos they really help

[@milindbhai1]

Fab and authentic tips. Delivered so beautifully.

[@Infinity2GlobalVIP]

Some great tips Marie ;-) , hitting 20K now, with your tips hopefully 40K soon ..lol Thanks

[@lunaisbig7]

WHAT A GREAT VIDEO... THX FOR THE HELP

[@onlineservices4749]

Helpful information. I like it.

[@Ghostlymuso]

Very helpful Marie. I will follow your number 1 tip by offering quality, free, instrumental acoustic guitar music for use in any of your future videos, I control all copyrights to my music and choose to make it freely available to youtubers.

[@miguelcruz8972]

Excellent video! Thank you Marie

[@marieforleo]

Happy to hear these tips are going to help you with your networking!

[@kimbanyc]

Utterly on point and useful as usual. But I couldn't stop thinking, "who made that necklace?" I know this would follow under what not to do while being present.

[@SteveUrlz]

Wow I was heading to computer networking but oh well that works as well :D

[@petermiller8360]

Great Tips for networking but its old now.... Can you advise us Latest Networking tips it would be a great help.

[@marieforleo]

You're welcome! These tips can work for anyone, even if you feel reserved.

[@TheGoodnessCompany]

Good content is hard to find. Thanks

[@maria76882]

Awesome Maria, dynamic presentation: It's like a dance dudba

[@shertamang7523]

thank you for sharing helpful this vedio

[@MichaelMaddenLehighValley]

Great information Maria Thank you Michael Madden

[@LizCortes]

My fav tip was not making promises and doing a promise right away! Wow, this would save me so much time and I wouldn't forget to do what I said...

[@marieforleo]

You're very welcome, Eva!

[@ThePopogaga]

Great advice. Plus ur dress is pretty! Thaaank you!

[@radii8091]

Great Video.. very informative and useful to get success

[@energyDEPLETED]

Very helpful, thank you