Throw punches in bunches! Elbows in, you win! Where do you want to be – not there! Let your punches go with bad intentions! Jab, hook, cross! Move that head! Hit and don’t get hit! Keep your left up! Train hard! Set up those combinations! Win! Distance is everything. Bite down! Breathe! Yo, Adrian, I did it! Everything is off the jab!
This is pretty much everything I have learned about boxing.
Other than the training, the most important thing is probably to perfect that jab. That’s the punch you throw with your lead left hand (if you’re right-handed) to set up your power punches.
Well, if you’re serious about networking, having a clearly defined target market is your jab. Everything is off the target market.
What industry, profession, market segment, niche, dynamic, demographic, and/or geography do you serve best and therefore wish to serve most?
In my case, I serve firms in the insurance and financial services industry and law firms, helping financial advisors and attorneys grow their business through hard, actionable networking strategies.
This determines where I go, what I say, and who I meet.
GET TO THE RIGHT PLACES
Networking groups, chambers, conferences, trade shows, socials, pickleball, business workshops, service groups, affinity groups (similar professions), professional associations (my favorite!), targeted referral groups (same target market), create your own group!
SAY THE RIGHT THINGS
Do you have great questions to lead you to a compelling conversation? Do you listen? Take notes? Do you have a specific elevator speech or positioning statement? Can you identify if you’re speaking with a potential networking partner or true prospect? That said, does what you say come across like you’re networking rather than selling? How will you set up your follow-up? How will you stay in touch as appropriate?
MEET THE RIGHT PEOPLE
Who is your economic buyer? (Not anyone that…) What professions are your best referral sources or centers of influence? Can your current clients lead you to new clients? Can your former clients lead you to new clients? Can your former clients become current clients?
Stop and take note.
Are you going to the RIGHT places, saying the RIGHT things, and meeting the RIGHT people?
Consider your 1-2-3 punch to networking (and your target market!) and let your jab set up your RIGHT!
WHAT WILL YOU ADD TO YOUR NETWORKING FIGHT PLAN?
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