Did you ever notice how some women have such ‘magnetic’ personalities, that you are drawn to them in conversation, on and off the golf course? Women are ‘natural networkers’ or better yet, ‘connectors.’ They like to establish a bonding-type communication between one another, share like interests, join, unite and help one another.

A good connector ‘has your back.’ They are personally invested in seeing you succeed because they know, like and trust you. They’ve always got you in the back of their minds. In a way, they are ‘personal walking ambassadors’ for you.

Being involved in EWGA since 1992, I’ve had an opportunity to meet A LOT of women. As a result, it has always been my personal philosophy to be an effective ‘connector of people.’ As such, I’ve learned a few rules along the way:

1) Never expect anything in return. If your intent is to give in order to get, intelligent women will see right through this façade.

2) Stop keeping score. If you introduce a businesswoman to another and hope that by doing so, they’ll return the favor, don’t keep track. If you can’t do it out of the goodness of your heart, don’t do it.

3) Make sure that it’s a win-win situation. Know the woman’s personality so you can you judge if introducing her to a potential job opening or network contact, will work out.

4) Your influence is determined by how abundantly you place other women’s interests first.

5) Add value to a conversation, round of golf, introduction or business meeting. Otherwise, don’t participate.

6) Make women feel good about themselves. At work and at home, we are constantly tested by business associates, family and friends. Therefore, surround yourself with ‘feel good’ women, not ‘put downers’ or critical ones of your actions or worse yet, those you cannot trust.

7) You have friends three ways: a) For a reason, b) For a season and, c) For a lifetime. If a friendship is based on a ‘use you, use me’ mentality, your ‘friendship’ will be short-lived. The most valuable gift you can give a friend is your ‘authentic’ self. If you have to put on ‘airs’ or someone is your friend because of your financial statement, it is not a friendship but a transaction amongst strangers.

If you want to have ‘people’ skills, then be a ‘person.’ Be authentic.

9) As the bible says, ‘it is better to give than to receive.’

10) Reach out and become an ‘initiator.’ Invite another EWGA member to a business function, to be part of your foursome or to have coffee. It is only then that women will start thinking of you and reciprocating.

When I’ve met women for the first time through EWGA, either at a ‘networking’ event or on the first tee, I get to know them, know their interests, and start to understand who they are as a person. I’m a naturally curious individual and although, I am a ‘gregarious introvert,’ I have a good sense of self. I know with whom I’d like to surround myself, in business and in friendship. Therefore, because golf is a metaphor for life, I will play golf with an EWGA member if I’m considering doing business with them OR referring them for a job. If they conduct themselves with honesty and integrity on the course, I automatically assume that they will conduct themselves similarly off the course. If they cheat, they’re done.

I hope these past and present members won’t mind me mentioning them because they have supported me and shared in the successes of my golf-related businesses over the years and are part of my T.E.A.M. … Together Everyone Achieves More! (This is my company & personal philosophy!)

by Berith Jacobsen of www.coloradogolftrails.com