While reviewing the list of attendees who have registered for the Rainmaker 23rd Annual SuperConference, I also perused the answers that attendees submitted during registration to this question: what are you hoping to get out of attending this conference?
Almost 50% of attendees stated networking as their chief reason for being there. It is a very good reason for participating, as fresh ideas, new information, and even additional business will be generated when this large group of quality professionals are assembled for several days. They are all focused on growth and looking for answers for how to overcome the challenges inherent in growth.
Networking is daunting for some, and, at times, people walk away from a networking opportunity without a great deal to show for their time. Yet, there are others who thrive in networking situations and always seem to be in the right place at the right time when someone needs help. They become a recipient of new business and are seen by others as a ‘go to’ person when they need something.
“You can have everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” – Zig Ziglar
It is very easy to think in terms of what we are going to receive from the act of doing something as opposed to simply enjoying the opportunity in a networking situation of meeting new people, reconnecting with colleagues, listening to others, and providing relevant help and useful feedback when the situation calls for it. You do not need to have all the answers, which is a lesson I learned years ago when my wife told me she didn’t want solutions, she only wanted me to listen. Just being there and staying present is often all people need, and more will be gained when you are in that space of giving without being solely focused on needing to get something in return for your efforts.
Conference season is well underway, and, for professionals, these events are a terrific chance to network, grow yourself, and generate new business. There will most certainly be new ideas, information, and relationships to leverage at every event you attend. However, if the sole purpose of being there is to take things away, then you are missing the point and may also miss out on many other opportunities that you were not even expecting. People can sense when you are in it for yourself and what you can gain from the situation. They can also sense when you are present, when you care about their story, and when you want to help – if your help is what they need.
When the motivation is true and comes from a place of service, then rewards will come naturally and without a great deal of effort. The same is true in client relationships outside of networking events. We see so often that it is the interested introvert, and not the interesting extrovert, that wins the day with clients and prospects who are looking for a professional advisor who can be present, listen, and respond, not react, appropriately to their needs when they arise.
Next Steps
If you are considering ways to establish and grow relationships with practice leaders from around the country, join us in Atlanta this June 18-20 for our annual SuperConference to meet and learn from some of the industry’s top growth-focused leaders, consider joining a Rainmaker Niche Community, or contact us for a complimentary consultation on how Rainmaker can help enhance your firm’s growth culture. The Rainmaker Companies can help you Grow Your Firm or Grow Your Practice.
Patrick Pruett – Executive Vice President at The Rainmaker Companies
