Who woulda thought?
As I sat down, I realized just how far I had come and yet I had so far to go. I would've been really quite content to live in the mountains by myself bothering no one and being bothered by no one. I was the master at slipping in and out of social gatherings without saying anything wrong or anything at all! I would've been equally content not to have opened a business at the beginning of the worst economic climate in my lifetime or possibly in history. I would've been very happy and content to remain comfortable.
Instead, I opened a physical therapy clinic at the beginning of 2008. I joined the local chamber of commerce. Discomfort. I actually attended the chamber events. More discomfort. I joined a networking group, became the vice president in charge of membership and watched as the group grew from 6 to about 20 in 13 months. Discomfort. Became an ambassador for the chamber and had to make phone calls. More discomfort. Now, I can't walk into or out of a community event without stopping and asking someone how it's going or what's new, or how are the kids. I can't slip in and out of social gatherings without being noticed.
So as I sat down from my address to new chamber members as the Rookie of the Year recipient, I realized that I no longer feel discomfort. I learned I genuinely love to interact with people outside of my clinic office. The king of the "attending social gatherings covertly society" has lost his throne. I don't think all the people I've met and become friends or acquaintances of will let my business fail- and that I think is networking.
Networking skills can be learned and absolutely takes work. I believe networking should be studied as much as your business field. But the two most important aspects of networking is to apply what you've learned and be true to who you are- be genuine. I'm genuinely an outgoing person now. Who woulda thought?
I can relate to your experience and insights. It's true that the discomfort subsides through thoughtful interaction and patience. Thanks for sharing your story!