I so agree Jeffrey. I have been part of several networking groups and I see businesses come one time to tell us about their new business and then we never see them again. I do refer and do business with people I have come to know over time and trust what they say and do. Networking is not a one time thing. It takes time and dedication but the pay off is tremendous. Showing up is 80% of life. So if you have tried networking and only gone to one or two meetings, and are disappointed in the results you have not given it enough time. Not every group or organization is a fit for each business and you do have to be a part of groups that have your customers in them.

YES, Like I said, networking usually fails because individuals are thinking me, me, me. Rather, for networking to be successful, both parties need to think WE, WE, WE. If both parties do not benefit from the relationship, it is unlikely the relationship will be sustained. No one is going to recommend a stranger for an internal company position or a vendor relationship just because you know names or exchange business cards. It is ludicrous, but many people say networking does not work; suspect these people are ME, ME, ME type.

A 1 on 1 is not needing something from you. It is establishing a relationship. Even if you do not do business together, that person is most likely to introduce some one to you that does. If you are trying to sell each other then you are not doing a 1 on 1. You are arm wrestling! Business card droppers are professional wrestlers! Wrestling wondering why networking doesn't work for them.