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In 1958, Eddie Cochran sang a very famous rock-n-roll chorus:

"Sometimes I wonder what l'm-a gonna do
But there ain't no cure
For the summertime blues"

Ah, Summertime. That time when we look forward to the weather, family, vacation, relaxation, beach, and the fun that comes along with the season.

But in the networking world, summer brings challenges we don't face at other times of the year. Referral partners take longer to follow up, are out of the office, or are less intentional in their networking. Chapters see an increase in absences and a decrease in referrals.  Also, it is difficult to find visitors and/or new referral partners in our normal spots.

As intentional networkers, we must step outside of our networking comfort zones and look in other places to find new partners.
Where does an intentional networker start? Begin by searching for your new referral partnership where you spend your time during the summer months. And while it may not be summertime in your corner of the world, these strategies are worthwhile whatever the season.

1. Sports Fields. Kids play baseball, softball, and soccer. Parents spend night after night at practices, games, or volunteering at the concession stands. These parents/athletes are business people-people who may share your target market.

Discussions can range from vacation, work, home repairs, to neighborhood politics. A simple conversation or offer to help amid the extra innings, may lead to growing your business.

Remember, the only way to get to know the people these sport parents know is to get to know them first.

2. Vacation. We love our time off to recharge and relax. However, during that time networking is usually left off the agenda. We are missing an opportunity to see BNI chapters in another area-or even another country. This is a great chance to pick up new networking ideas, share things that work in your chapter in order to give to the group you are visiting, and, maybe, find new markets for your product or services.

It is a safe bet you can attend a networking meeting and be back to your room before the family is even out of bed!

3. Neighborhood Festivals. Summer is the time of festivals and county fairs. It's a time for rides, music, games, and good greasy food! It can also be the time to talk to neighbors in more detail. We can build relationships beyond the friendly waves while mowing grass. Take the time to get to know your neighbors.  Host a neighborhood cookout to strengthen or even start relationships.  Who knows, they may hold the key to your ideal referral partner.

4.  Weekly BNI Meeting.  More than ever, intentional networkers must be diligent in attending their weekly meetings.  Visibility is crucial during the summer months.  There are also opportunities to increase your credibility by focusing on inviting visitors to your chapter and substituting in other groups, especially if your profession is open in that chapter.  When you bring value in true Givers Gain fashion, you will receive results!

Fun abounds during the summer. Networking can, too. But it requires you to be intentional. Remember, networking can occur anywhere, anytime. Avoid the summertime networking blues and make the most of the fun (and networking) in the sun!

It's ok to be a networking N.E.R.D., because as my business partner and Nspired co-founder Amy Kilpatrick defines it, Networking Everyday Requires Dedication!

Be a summertime networking N.E.R.D. and cure your summertime blues.



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