by Reginald Jackson (USA)

For some of us, the thought of going to a networking event conjures up images of a blind date gone bad. Maybe you are uncomfortable at the notion of going someplace where you will know anyone, and maybe you are scared to death of what may (or may not) happen. When you go to a networking event, what do you say? What do you do? Does the thought of it bring on not so pleasant memories or feelings of dread or fright? Maybe for you it’s not that severe. However, it is for some.

Maybe you just don’t see the point in going in the first place. More times than not, there can be a stigma you’ve attached to networking that makes it an unsavoury event. If this describes you or someone you know, I have good news for you. Networking is actually one of the greatest tools ever!

Networking is nothing more than meeting people and creating relationships. For all intents and purposes, you have been networking all your life. It goes back as far as (maybe) daycare or kindergarten. Think about it. It is everywhere you look (meeting people and creating relationships).

Today’s kids have ‘play dates.’ Networking!

Source: iCN Issue 21 (Business Coaching); page 43

About Reginald Jackson

As a Personal and Business Coach, Reginald works with individuals, as well as groups, inspiring them to move outside their comfort zone and realize their greatness. His journey up to this point is interesting and quite diverse. Having served in the Marine Corps for more than twenty years, he offers a unique blend of leadership, wisdom, and compassion. Over the span of his career, he trained, counseled, and mentored hundreds of Marines. It was during that time he developed the insight and awareness that makes him such a powerful Coach.  Since retiring from the Corps in 2007, he has held leadership positions in the IT industry, to include consulting and project management. Working with others and seeing “the light come on” is especially rewarding.