Taking the Plunge: Networking 101

Just last week I presented my traditional “8 Keys to Networking” for the 90 Purdue students in my Introduction to Entrepreneurship class. The timing was intentional, as the following assignment is to find an entrepreneur to interview and videotape. I stressed that most successful people I know are amazing networkers and relish helping others. I encouraged them to reach out with a goal – and to take a few risks.

Two groups took up the challenge – and can teach all of us a lesson in thinking big and being willing to stick your neck out. And that when you do, amazing things begin to happen. Here are their stories:

As each of my 8 teams reported out on the entrepreneur they chose to interview, Team 3 was hesitant to speak to theirs. I pushed and prodded, and finally they shared how they had noticed that Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple, is active on Facebook and that you can message him. They have since struck up a conversation – and have a pretty good shot at landing an interview with him. Great example of thinking BIG!

Then in my 4:30 class, Matt Frank reached out to the folks at GoRuck, a company with a vision to become one of the most respected brands in the world for gear (such as backpacks, rucksacks and other gear for adventurers and military folks) – with a lifetime guarantee. He merely used the “Contact” feature on the website, and after a few emails found himself talking to the top brass. In addition to agreeing to do the interview, they have discovered his enthusiasm for this product and like his ideas for campus promotion. They are intrigued. Enough so that there is serious discussion about meeting in person (read trip to headquarters in Washington, DC). Even better, the discussion is heading toward ways to work together. Great example of what can happen when you do reach out.

So, this begs the question: If you had as much gumption as these students, who would you reach out to?