What Can We All Learn About Networking from Marty?

I attended an indoor cycle class at my gym today. As I entered the room, a gentleman in his sixties smiled like he knew me and hollered a robust "hello!". I chose a bike near him because he was so friendly. He asked me if I was a biker and we discussed the types of workouts we do, in and out of the gym. The man introduced himself as Marty. As another participant entered the class, Marty asked her if she needed any help getting her bike set up. The instructor came over as he was helping her and joked “Marty, are you trying to put me out of a job? I can help her.” The class started, and a gentleman joined a few minutes late. Marty called out to everyone. “Oh boy, Kevin is here now, he’s going to put us all to shame, he’s a great biker.” Kevin just smiled and got started. A few times during the class Marty engaged with the instructor (whose name he knew- Alyssa) and a few other participants. He called out encouraging words to the class during the more challenging parts of the workout. 

I’d be willing to bet Marty has never had a hard time building his network, expanding his business opportunities, or finding a job. 

I’ve been a member of my gym since October and have attended the cycle class fairly regularly. I know for certain, no one (except for Marty) knows my name. I heard the instructor introduce herself a few weeks ago, but I didn’t remember her name. 

When I talk with clients about networking, they express wanting to be like Marty but express that making connections in this way feels phony to them. We’ll brainstorm ways they can be more inquisitive and engaging. Marty did not seem fake at all. He seemed interested in my fitness endeavors and in helping everyone. There is so much to learn from people like Marty, especially for job seekers and individuals like me, trying to build our little niches in the world. The term networking makes some of us uncomfortable. Maybe it’s more comfortable to think of networking as being friendly, helpful, and inquisitive. Thanks Marty. 

 If you would like more information on networking Andrea Nierenberg’s book and blog are fantastic resources.