Whether you are networking in person or online, the foundation of narrative networking is listening.
When you are online, you listen to what people are saying about your brand or company. Discover what people like and dislike. Who is championing your products and services?
In person, the focus is on becoming someone people can trust. Listen for opportunities to offer your services.
Ultimately, in either form of networking, finding clues about how you can better serve is the goal.
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Test your stories. Over time, you will refine your ideas. It will be easier to refine them if you test multiple ideas at each event. Read body language. Make note of reactions and objections. After the event, evaluate what worked and what did not.
If you wish to network and develop relationships you need to overcome the biggest barrier: starting.
Get out of the house or office. Warm up by calling associates that might be available for networking or a productive meeting. Look for events in your area. Meetup.com is a good place to start.