Networking for Love

Networking to find love?  Hundreds of thousands of people are technically already “networking for love”, or at least a date, simply by being members of online dating sites.

But, can traditional business networking strategies be applied to dating?

Paul A. Falzone, CEO of the world’s largest bricks and mortar dating service The Right One and Together Dating, shares business networking tips with singles who may heed them when networking for love:

Become a “groupie”. Just as you might belong to professional or trade associations, it helps to become a member of a group or organization in which you are personally interested.  You can belong to any number of groups and it’s one of the best ways to meet like-minded people and make new friends.

Also, check out social networking sites and consider joining a community of those who share a common interest in hobbies, religion, or politics. Some of these online friends may be single and also looking for love.  Just remember that your social networking site is not an online dating site so your approach to other members must respect that.  Take the time to contribute to the community and slowly get to know the others.

Consider volunteering. Just as in the business networking sense, it raises your profile and draws increased attention to you.

Stay visible. Technology makes it possible to never be out of touch.  Use it wisely and stay in touch with acquaintances, colleagues, friends from school and so on.  Getting out there and staying visible is key.

Referrals. Don’t be shy about turning to those you know for suggestions on how to meet other singles or for a potential introduction to one of their single friends or colleagues.

Be in the present and take an interest. When you meet someone, take the time to really listen to what they are saying and ask open-ended questions to keep a real dialogue going.  This strategy is particularly helpful to those who don’t typically do any business networking or who are a bit reserved.

Follow up with those that you meet through friends, colleagues, special groups or volunteering via email, telephone, Facebook, etc., letting them know you enjoyed meeting them.

Be genuine. It’s one of the keys to business networking success.  You’re trying to build trust and relationships. It’s the same premise when you are networking for love.  Be honest and be yourself.

Falzone noted, “By applying business networking strategies, you are creating terrific opportunities to meet new people and get to know them, which will set you on the right course to finding ‘the right one’.”