How do we do more than network, more than add names to our Facebook page, LinkedIn lists, and Blackberry contacts?
In business, as in not-for-profit organizations, we are taught the importance of networking. "Network, Network, Network" seems to be the song sung by many.
Ask a handful of people what keeps them in Prince George and more often than not the response is "it's the people" or "it's a friendly community."
Having made my way to Prince George via Victoria and then Quesnel, I am often asked this question. Many of my close friends are also transplants to Prince George and their responses mirror mine -- "it's about the people who are quick to smile, easy to establish relationships with and are unpretentious."
So, back to my original inquiry -- how do we do more than network? If genuine connection seems to be the strength of our community, can we apply this to the networking process and help our businesses flourish?
I write this week's column while camping at a beautiful family owned and operated resort at the northern end of Vancouver Island.
The sole proprietor is a down to earth, suspender wearing, no-nonsense kind of man who I would bet is not keen on the notion of 'networking.' But as I sit back on the dock and observe this bustling community, read about its history and admire the workmanship surrounding me I am struck by the genuine connections he has established over the years.
At the resort's restaurant the entrance doors are beautifully designed stained glass. Years earlier the owner's children had given their parents a specially designed stain glass door for their family home. It was the same artist who provided the doors to the restaurant. The owner could have easily ordered the glass anonymously online but instead chose a path based on connection and history. And consequently, I have answered my initial inquiry.
We move beyond networking by focussing on genuine connections and paying attention to the quality of relationships we have in our businesses rather than scrambling to add to the number of people we know. In those genuine interactions there is great potential and a real local advantage for our businesses and for our community overall.
So, how do we build these sorts of connections? Prince George is a community filled with much talent, skill and ability. We can tap into these resources by being present in our conversations rather than looking for who is next to connect with-listening to the other rather than simply filling space talking about ourselves -- focussing on what is working and of course a little laughter.
I see this in practice since arriving at this resort. Layers upon layers of stories woven into this business all built on genuine connections.
Until next time stay in the black and keep coming back!
