So if the first week was infrastructure, and the second week was printing and distribution, this week was brought to you by networking. I'm not talking about the new fangled LinkedIn and Facebook kind of networking, I am talking about the old fashioned, pressing the flesh, networking group meetings.
Call them what you will, leads groups, business after hours, or coffee and collaboration...to an outsider all they really seem to be, is a substitute for an AA meeting for people that should probably go to AA. Actually that's not true at all. They really are amazing and vital groups of people that have the best interests of both their business' and other members business' at heart and are more then willing to impart their wisdom to those just starting out.
In the telecommunications industry and many other technology driven industries, networking focuses on the industry and the technologies pertinent to that industry. Wireless folks network with other wireless folks, Oracle experts with other Oracle experts. There is a healthy exchange of information and ideas but it is a rarity that the conversation turns out side of the area of focus for any length of time. These groups are great for what they are but when it comes to small business the needs of the small business owner are greater then just the monocular focus of these groups.
There are literally hundreds of online options for the technologically inclined networker. However, when you are meeting people that you are going to rely on for your bread and butter you better darn well be able to shake their hand and look them in the eye. Remember it's more then just a cup of coffee at stake at these meetings. It is no less then your reputation and livelihood on the line...make the best of it.
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