What the Movers and Shakers Know That You Don't - Volunteering Does More Than Make You Feel Good
One of the best kept secrets of the movers and shakers is that volunteering is a powerful way to improve you business and your life. There is nothing more powerful than a group of people pulling together for a common cause. When you work side by side with another person in an effort you both care about, you will find that forces seen and unseen will work in your favor to bring you closer together.
Volunteering differs from taking a leadership role in that volunteers do the heavy lifting. They function in an operational manner. They do the planning, coordinating, and directing others. These are the unsung heroes of the event that went off without a hitch, the issue that was tackled and defeated, and the community that was changed for the better. Volunteers make our lives better and we couldn't live or function without them.
You can get started by simply offering to be a greeter at the reception table at the next event you attend. Or you can offer to serve in a role at your local chamber of commerce, service club, or school. There are more opportunities than one can count to volunteer and make a difference.
When choosing how to serve, consider the things that you are passionate about. While serving your industry group will reap rewards in your business life, serving with other people who share your passion for a cause will bring you personal rewards and satisfaction. And don't fail to recognize the opportunities you'll be given to expand your business with the people you will meet who will be interested in you since you share a common interest in a cause.
But don't be too anxious to do business. You will have access to people that you could never get to through normal business channels. When you serve with others who care about what you care about, you will be amazed at the different people you will easily meet and spend time with. Volunteering gives you access to people you may otherwise never get close to and better still, it gives you the commonality that builds relationships. Do not abuse this opportunity by trying to sell.
The best approach is to get to know the people you are volunteering with and let them get to know you. Once they know you, they will like you, and your co-service will lead them to trust you. You won't have to ask for the business, they will naturally bring the business to you. You will be a trusted resource they will go to and lead others to when they find a need for your products or services.
Remember that you should volunteer to serve a cause or group you have a passion for and you will find that business will naturally happen. In the process you will find personal fulfillment, new friends, and bigger business opportunities. Friends do business together.
Be a Leader – Get Involved in the Operation
Leaders are missing in most every aspect of life. There is a void of leadership that continues to weaken groups in all areas of our society, and networking groups are not immune. We need those who possess skills and enthusiasm to keep the group on task, on time, on purpose, and on going.
As with all things in life, successful networking requires careful planning, consistent attendance, full participation, and careful results measurement. But to truly soar you need to do more than just consistently attend events and participate. By volunteering to take a leadership role you will set yourself apart from the masses. Everyone values those who give of their time to ensure the success of the group. Giving of your time in a purposeful way will yield great results. You should seek out opportunities to serve where you can make the biggest impact for the group and for you.
Choose a leadership role that aligns with your unique set of skills. Those who facilitate groups in their business lives should facilitate networking groups. Bankers, financial planners, certified public accountants, and other financial professionals should volunteer to assist with management of the finances and financial reporting of the group. Always seek opportunities to showcase your skills when seeking a leadership role.
Check your ego at the door. While you may be the captain of your ship, leadership in a volunteer group requires a servant mentality. To lead is to serve others. Bring all your talent and skills to be sure, but resist the temptation to be overbearing simply because you are the expert. Remember that others are serving as well. The last thing any group needs is a dictator. Be empathetic.
Perhaps the best thing about being a leader in any group is that you will be considered a leader in all walks of life. People naturally assume that you are a mover and shaker when you are the head of an organization and they will ask you to lead in others. This gives you access to the heads of other organizations. They now represent your peer group.
Become known as a leader and you will be amazed at the level of people you meet and how many of them will want to know you.