One of the most important things ever said about networking is:
"All things being equal, people will do business with people they know, like and trust" ~ Bob Burg, author of Endless Referrals
Sometimes
it matters even if things are not all equal. You can get coffee for 99
cents, but a very large coffee chain can still get four bucks for hot
water, milk and steam. People know where to go, they trust the quality
and they like the company.
How can you tap into a similar
popularity and grow your business? By working on all three of these
factors: helping people know who you are and what you have to offer,
show them through your actions that you can be trusted, and prove
yourself to be a likable person. This article is going to address
likability by giving you one more strategy to help you become more
interesting and charming and therefore liked by more people.
People
like other people who give them good feelings. This could mean positive
feelings such as enjoyment or love, but not necessarily. People want to
express their thoughts and opinions and like those who express those
same thoughts. It may be that you both hate the same thing. Haven't you
had a great time with someone else at a networking event when you
started expressing your distaste for the same sports team? It's always
nice to find people who enjoy what you enjoy, but it's just as
satisfying to find someone who hates what you hate.
And, some
people have a hard time articulating what they hate, so if you can say
what they are thinking - and especially in a fun or amusing way - you
may have a friend for life. Whether you love them or hate them, this is
one way that radio talk show hosts build such a strong fan base. They
are willing and able to say what their audience is thinking. And, they
are able to channel their audience's feelings through that expression.
If you ask someone why they like their particular favorite so much, they
will tell you "because they say what I feel."
You don't need a
talk show. When you are networking, simply listen to what people are
talking about and if you see a point of similarity, don't be afraid to
express yourself. It doesn't have to be a point of national importance,
even something small can work to build that bond between you and someone
else. If you're willing to express what they are thinking, you'll
create a positive feeling in them that will be transferred to you.