Networking Basics Series: If You're Too Cool to Learn Anything, You Probably Won't (Part 5)

There probably isn't a small businessperson alive who hasn't attended a networking or business development meeting where they've had to do something that seemed REALLY stupid ... or dorky ... or ridiculous ... or just outright crazy. A couple years ago at one of my business development groups, one of the team leaders made us all do the Hokey Pokey. Really! Did I think it was silly? You betcha. But did I do it? You betcha!!

That Hokey Pokey lesson is really the point of this whole blog. It's only when we put our whole selves in that we see any major results.

I know, I know - I might be speaking to the choir. There are probably tons of you smarty pants out there who could be teaching the seminars, rather than attending them. But this is a serious question: When you're asked to do something a little odd at a networking meeting, how willing are you to extend yourself, even if it means looking foolish?

Some Reasons You Might Choose Not to Participate

• This is stupid.
• I'm too cool/smart/sophisticated to do this.
• I might do it wrong.
• People might laugh at me.
• I'll feel really foolish.
• What will my guest think of me?

Here's a newsflash: Chances are you don't know everything.

Here's a second newsflash: It's a pretty good bet that the person who designed the exercise had an inspired idea for teaching you something.

If you have a tough time going along with the group, I invite you to rethink that entrenched position. For one thing, you won't be the only one looking foolish - the whole group is participating! By not participating, what you're really saying is that you are the only one who's above having some fun or letting their hair down.

Sometimes these group exercises really are stupid ... and they fall flat. Don't be the first one to point a finger of blame at the organizer. Be the first one to lend support. You'll be remembered ... and appreciated!

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Do you live in the Phoenix, Arizona area? Are you thinking about making a change in real estate companies? Give me a call at 602-595-8900 or e-mail me. Let's talk about your marketing strategies - and how to put your whole self in. PhoenixPropertyShoppe.com