It’s a proven fact that most people would rather stay home than walk into a room full of strangers under the guise of networking.
OK, I don’t actually have any stats on this, but I think most of you will agree with me 🙂
There are, of course, a few of us who feel like we’ve won the lottery every time we get to chat it up with a complete stranger, but let’s face it, most of us view networking as a forced activity, kind of like going to the gym — we know we need to do it, but who really wants to?
But, just like having a gym buddy keeps you accountable, makes the whole process more enjoyable and, in general, yields you better results, a networking buddy can do all that and more.
What, exactly, is a networking buddy?
A networking buddy will attend events with you, work the room with you, introduce you to the right people, act as a “home base” for when you need a break and, most of all, keep you accountable.
Benefits of attending events together:
You don’t have to show up alone — and chances are much better that you’ll actually show up. By committing to an event together, you’re both keeping each other accountable.
As mentioned above, a good number of people want to go but have too much anxiety about attending alone.
If you know you don’t have to go alone, that’s half the battle.
Benefits of working the room together:
You’re both looking out for one another and are able to introduce more people to each other.
Depending on how you plan your strategy, you can either network together or divide and conquer. Both options are great and will allow you to meet more quality people in a shorter amount of time.
Benefits of having your buddy “there”:
Sometimes, you just need a short break during an event.
I, personally, find it’s much easier when I can go hang out with my buddy for a few minutes to recharge and regroup.
A quick touch base gets us both on the same page — we share notes and then are ready to keep networking.
In a nutshell, you are much more likely to show up to events and meet quality people if you’re doing it with a friend. Not to mention, you’ll have a lot more fun.
Networking should be an enjoyable and very beneficial part of your life. It takes practice, and having a buddy to help guide you through it will allow you to achieve maximum success.
