For some people, a networking event is excruciating, intimidating and even feels physically and emotionally painful. Some people consider networking to be a waste of time, because they dont see immediate results.

To others, networking is fun. It is something they look forward to. These people are the ones you see who look like naturals. They are visibly enjoying themselves and look as though they are spending time with old friends.

So, whats the difference between the two? Is there a secret to successful networking?

There are no secrets for successful networking, but there are some very valuable and simple steps to follow to make your networking experience something that is both enjoyable and profitable for you.

Businesses have found that networking can be one of the most efficient, effective and cost-effective ways of marketing your business, your products and your services. Networking is a great way for you to become known within a community of individuals who are also coming together for the purpose of marketing themselves and their business.

So, if everyone goes to a networking meeting to become known, how could networking possibly work? The answer lies in the INTENTION of the attendees.

You see, the most successful Networkers know that networking is not all about them. Its not about handing out and collecting as many business cards as possible in an hour and a half. Its not about continually talking about them and being the center of attention.

The most successful Networkers know that networking is ALL about creating relationships. Its about making connections, showing up and being fully present. Its also about consistency.

You see, networking is not a one-shot deal. Networking is a process. And great relationships dont happen in a single meeting they grow over time.

The purpose of networking is to be with groups of people often enough so that you get to know them and they get to know you. Great relationships occur over a series of conversations, not just a 30-second introductory commercial.

This is not to say that you cant go to a meeting one time and meet the exact person who has the perfect contact for you to expand your business. What is true is this: If you are meeting the perfect person with the perfect contacts for the first time, will they feel comfortable referring you? Will they be willing, on the first time meeting you, to refer you to their long-time colleagues and associates, family and friends?

Think about it When you refer someone, your OWN reputation goes right along with that referral. If you refer someone and it works out, then youre a hero and the person you gave the referral to will trust your judgment in the future. If it doesnt work out, then they might be less likely to trust your referrals and you. Therefore, it is important to get to know the people you will be referring and to let them get to know you. This way they feel good about referring you and you feel good about referring them. This is what creating relationships is about. This is what great networking is about.

Its not about selling. Its not about you. Its about the group. Its about getting to really know people and letting them get to really know you. Its about consistently showing up, and especially, successful networking is about creating great relationships!

Sue Urda

Sue Urda is the Co-Founder of Powerful You! Women?s Network and a two-time Inc. 500 Fastest-Growing Private Companies honoree. Her vision is to contribute to a global consciousness of women helping women succeed in business and in life. Sue?s mission is to create venues for women to grow their businesses, nurture relationships and to foster empowerment, gratitude and self-development.

Sue Urda has always found herself in a leadership position, contributing to the growth and smooth functioning of all types and sizes of organizations. From Retail Manager to Customer Negotiations, from Health Insurance Manager to Employee Placement Agent, and as an entrepreneur sine 1988, Sue has enjoyed a vast array of business and personal experiences that led her to create a company to assist women in the pursuit of a balanced, fulfilling and powerful life.

For the first six years after graduating from college, Sue explored corporate America in various management and sales positions, yet there seemed to be something lacking to move her spirit.

In 1988, Sue joined her father in a start-up venture called Universal Rewards, Inc. Sue served as VP and part owner of this manufacturing company. This is where she found her love for entrepreneurship. In 1994, Universal Rewards, Inc. was named to the Inc. 500 fastest-Growing Private Companies list. In the same year, Sue?s father left this earth and the company its doors.

1994 was a pivotal year in Sue?s life. She decided to take all that she had learned and the many connections she had made to start a new company with a partner. Again, the company soared and in 2002 Network Display, Inc. was named to the Inc. 500 Fastest-Growing Private Companies list.

Even with this success, Sue knew she wanted to make a more substantial contribution to individuals and to the world. The transition was made in 2002. Sue and Kathy created an Internet Commerce wellness website, became involved with many networking groups and worked with a publishing company where Sue contributed as a writer, ad designer, sales rep and corporate strategist.

These two years were a journey of self-discovery, growth and personal and spiritual development from which Sue began to create seminars and workshops for women. Sue Urda and Kathy Fyler are founders of Powerful You! Inc., a company designed to assist women in business to grow professionally and personally through Tele-Network and live network meetings, workshops and building relationships.