11 Rules from Bill Parcells

Rules can be applied from many different disciplines to networking. In Sunday's Dallas Morning News, Jean-Jacques Taylor recounted the 11 rules former Cowboys' coach Bill Parcells gave to QB Tony Romo. Some license has been taken, but the intent is similar.

1. Ignore the opinions of others. Like QBs, we all get credit or blame for a variety of things. Know what is important to worry about and what isn't.
2. Have fun, but class clowns can't run a team. Truly, know when to be light and when to be serious.
3. Fat QBs can avoid the rush. OK, keep yourself in shape--mentally and physically--so you can respond to those questions and remember names at events.
4. Know your job cold. Know why you are at an event and your strategy.
5. Know your own players. Wing men (or women) those who are on your support team.
6. Be the same guy every day. Consistency is a key pillar of any brand, particularly your personal brand.
7. Throwing the ball away is a good play. Knowing when to finish a conversation and move on is an art.
8. Learn to manage the game; don't ever lose track of the clock. Every event has a time window; some can fill them and overflow; others are best left early. Know when to leave and when to stay.
9. You're not judged on stats and TD passes; get your team in the end zone. Don't forget the mission and reason you are at an event. The object is to win or finish, not just participate.
10. Don't panic in times of chaos. Be prepared; don't start looking for a job when you've lost one, be on people's radars; keep your cool and it will show.
11. Don't be a celebrity QB. Remember networking isn't really about you--it's about those you meet and converse with. Give and you will get.

Thanks, Mr. Taylor. Great column (see www.Dallasnews.com for the whole column)

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