Many years ago it was my first day in the office of a new partner – I was working
on-site primarily to review files and get an understanding of the organization’s
efforts in the world of planned giving. This early consulting project was limited in
scope. It wasn’t meant to be a day of meetings – I had spoken with the CEO on
the telephone and knew what papers would be waiting for me (unorganized file
boxes … but that’s a story for another day).
I had barely found my chair when Lara swept in. The organization’s Director of
Corporate Partnerships, this woman knew the importance of networking! After a
quick chat, she grabbed me by the arm (figuratively) and introduced me to
everyone in the office. From the data entry team to the nurses staffing the
Hotline. By afternoon I had learned more about the organization’s operations –
and why the team members all felt connected to the mission - then I could have
in months of paperwork … and, to be honest, months of phone calls, emails and
even walking by desks. Those warm and friendly introductions brought me into
the mission and helped me understand the organization far beyond the files. With
one guided walk down the hall I was transformed from a stranger in a formerly
empty office into a trusted ally and colleague.
At another organization, introductions were treated as an imposition. There was
no Lara and an expectation that working with the team meant forging
relationships - with staff, Board, and donors - from scratch. It was much more
difficult to feel supported by a team that was not supported by the power of
knowing that introductions were an entry point for trust and successful
collaboration.
When Team Kat & Mouse begins work with a new client – among the first steps is
meeting the people on your team, staff and often Board, to understand their roles
and the strengths they bring to the table that are not formally included in their
roles. To do this we often rely on INTRODUCTIONS from the CEO or the team
leader that has brought us in for support. But it could also be your Lara … the
person on your tam that has made it their job to know everyone is willing to share
that knowledge with us.
We use these introductions as a starting point to understand the storytelling that
is happening within the organization – how do the people who care most tell the
stories of their involvement and of community impact?
A piece of the power of these conversations, and the opportunities that they
uncover, comes from the fact that they take place after an introduction. It is clear
from the start that both parties bring something valuable to the table – and then
there is an opportunity to share.
Networking is a great way to meet people who might be interested in supporting
your non-profit but these conversations often start without an understanding of
that mutual value. Pushing yourself out of (what might be) your comfort zone to
introduce your mission to new prospective partners, donors, or community
members who might use your service is important to maintaining your
organization’s position in the community.
But you knew that!
There are some standard instructions for networking events -
Plan Ahead – Know who might be in attendance
Have a Goal – This will help you focus your efforts in the room. Who are you
interested in meeting and why?
Follow-Up – Make sure that you reach back to the people you’ve met with next
steps or just a note that makes clear that you were listening. Maybe send an
article that relates to your conversation.
But the magic of networking goes beyond your conversations. It also lies in the
power of introductions.
Any individual you meet might be interested in the story
of your non-profit and they might be in a position to join you as a donor,
volunteer or partner. But almost more importantly – they know a network of
people and businesses that might be in a position to support your work. And the
warm conversations with the new people they can connect you with, ones where
you come to the table understanding the value you both bring to the table, are
the ultimate goal.
When someone introduces you to a new contact, it’s like receiving a stamp of
approval. It instantly builds a bridge of trust and credibility, opening doors that
might have otherwise remained closed. These introductions not only expand your
circle of influence but also bring diverse perspectives and opportunities to your
doorstep. Imagine meeting someone who not only believes in your cause but
believes in it enough to share your story with their contacts to propel it forward.
Embracing the power of introductions in networking isn’t just about making
connections—it’s about leveraging those connections to create meaningful
change and growth for your organization.
So, next time you attend a networking
event, remember that the real magic happens not just in the conversations you
have, but in the introductions that pave the way for future success.
So be a Lara for someone within your organization to expand their understanding
of the team and how you can work together.
And be a Lara at your next networking event – make sure that connections are immediate and impactful!
Reach out today for a free consultation
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