The Art of Building Relationships in Business with Shahbaz Shah

In the latest episode of the Dial It In podcast, hosts Trygve Olsen and producer Nicole Fairclough dive deep into the world of networking with special guest Shahbaz Shah. Shahbaz, an area director for Business Networking International (BNI) and a wedding officiant, shares his wealth of knowledge on building relationships that can lead to business growth. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to enhance their networking skills and cultivate meaningful connections.

Episode Synopsis

Trygve kicks off the episode by introducing Shahbaz, highlighting his impressive background and experience in networking. Shahbaz recounts how he began his journey as a wedding officiant nearly 30 years ago, stemming from his brother's involvement in the arts. He shares anecdotes about his early experiences and how he transitioned into a business that now officiates numerous weddings each year.

The conversation quickly shifts to the importance of networking. Shahbaz emphasizes that no one is born a natural networker; it’s a skill that requires practice and intention. He reflects on his childhood experiences, where he learned the value of engaging with others and building relationships. Shahbaz believes that being of service and genuinely listening to others can open doors to opportunities that may not have been apparent initially.

They discuss the misconceptions surrounding networking, particularly the idea that it’s only for extroverts. Shahbaz points out that even introverts can excel in networking by focusing on building trust and relationships rather than merely collecting business cards. He shares his approach to networking, which involves asking how he can be of service to others, rather than simply seeking to benefit himself.

The episode also delves into the structure of BNI and how it fosters a supportive environment for its members. Shahbaz explains that BNI is designed to help members increase their business through structured networking, where relationships are prioritized over mere transactions. He highlights the importance of trust in networking, stating that people are more likely to refer business to those they know and trust.

As the conversation progresses, Shahbaz offers practical advice for evaluating networking groups. He suggests that individuals should look for groups that align with their business goals and values. It’s essential to assess the intentions of the group and its members, as well as the overall atmosphere. Shahbaz encourages listeners to reach out to leadership within networking groups to gauge their openness and willingness to welcome new members.

The episode wraps up with Shahbaz sharing his thoughts on what to do if a networking group experiences conflict or dysfunction. He advises listeners to reflect on their accountability within the situation and to seek to understand the root cause of any issues. By approaching conflicts with a mindset of curiosity and service, individuals can often find solutions that benefit everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

1. Networking is a Skill: No one is born a natural networker. It requires practice, intention, and a willingness to engage with others.

2. Be of Service: Shift the focus from what you can gain to how you can help others. This mindset fosters trust and opens doors to new opportunities.

3. Trust is Crucial: Building relationships based on trust is essential for successful networking. People are more likely to refer business to those they know and trust.

4. Evaluate Networking Groups: When considering a networking group, assess its alignment with your business goals and the intentions of its members.

5. Address Conflicts Constructively: If conflicts arise within a networking group, approach the situation with curiosity and a desire to understand, rather than placing blame.

Next Steps

If you’re looking to enhance your networking skills and build meaningful relationships, consider the following steps:

• Join a Networking Group: Explore local BNI chapters or other networking organizations that align with your business goals. Attend a few meetings to see if the group is a good fit for you.

• Practice Active Listening: When engaging with others, focus on listening and understanding their needs. This will help you identify ways to be of service.

• Follow Up: After meeting someone new, follow up with a personalized message. This can help solidify the connection and open the door for future collaboration.

• Reflect on Your Approach: Take time to evaluate your networking strategy. Are you focusing on building relationships, or are you primarily seeking immediate gains? Adjust your approach as needed.

• Stay Open to Opportunities: Networking is about building a community. Stay open to the possibilities that arise from your connections, even if they don’t lead to immediate business.

By implementing these strategies, you can cultivate a robust network that not only supports your business goals but also enriches your professional life. Tune in to the full episode for more insights from Shahbaz Shah and learn how to dial in your networking game!