In today’s fast-paced, interconnected world, the importance of networking cannot be overstated. As Harvey Mackay wisely pointed out in his book “Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty,” establishing a robust network before you urgently need it is crucial for personal and professional success. The volatile job market, intense competition, and the need for quick action make having a well-established network more valuable than ever. While building meaningful relationships takes time, once your network is in place, you’ll have a wealth of resources, information, and connections at your fingertips.
Let’s delve deeper into the seven steps that can help you build your networking well efficiently and effectively:
- Think Networking
The first step in building your networking well is to adopt a networking mindset. This means being constantly aware of potential networking opportunities in every interaction. Whether you’re at a business conference, a social gathering, or even running errands, approach each new encounter with the question: “Could this person be a valuable addition to my network?”
Remember, networking isn’t just about collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections. It’s about forming genuine relationships that could potentially benefit both parties. Each person you meet is a gateway to their own network of 250 people on average. By cultivating a relationship with one person, you’re potentially expanding your reach to hundreds more.
Consider creating a system to keep track of new contacts. This could be as simple as a spreadsheet or as sophisticated as a customer relationship management (CRM) tool. Note down not just contact information, but also personal details, shared interests, or potential areas of collaboration. This information will be invaluable when you follow up and nurture these relationships.
- Think Win/Win
The most successful networkers understand that networking is not a one-way street. It’s not about what you can get from others, but what you can give. This win/win mentality is what separates true networking from mere opportunism.
When you meet someone new, instead of immediately thinking, “What can this person do for me?” ask yourself, “How can I add value to this person’s life or business?” This could involve sharing your expertise, offering a helpful resource, or making an introduction to someone in your existing network.
By focusing on how you can help others, you create goodwill and establish yourself as a valuable connection. This approach often leads to reciprocity, with people naturally wanting to help you in return. Moreover, it makes the networking process more enjoyable and fulfilling, as you’re genuinely invested in others’ success.
- Think Know You, Like You, Trust You
People prefer to do business with, and refer business to, individuals they know, like, and trust. Building these three elements should be at the core of your networking strategy.
To be known, you need to be visible and memorable. This might involve being active in industry associations, speaking at events, or regularly sharing valuable content on social media. To be liked, focus on being genuine, showing interest in others, and finding common ground. Trust is built over time through consistent actions, keeping your promises, and demonstrating integrity in all your dealings.
Remember, trust is fragile. It takes time to build but can be destroyed in an instant. Always strive to be reliable, honest, and ethical in your networking interactions.
- Ask Feel-Good Questions
The art of asking the right questions is crucial in networking. Avoid diving into personal questions too quickly, as this can make people uncomfortable and break rapport. Instead, focus on “feel-good” questions that make the other person feel positive about themselves, the conversation, and you.
For example:
- “How did you get started in your field?”
- “What do you enjoy most about your work?”
- “What’s been your biggest professional achievement so far?”
These questions allow the other person to share their story and showcase their expertise, which most people enjoy doing. It also gives you valuable information about their background and interests.
The key question that can set you apart is, “How can I know if someone I’m talking to would be a good prospect for you?” This question demonstrates that you’re thinking about how you can help them, which is often reciprocated.
- Send a Personal, Handwritten Thank You Note
In our digital age, a handwritten note stands out. After meeting someone new, take the time to send a personal, handwritten thank you note. Express how much you enjoyed meeting them and offer to refer business their way if the opportunity arises.
This small gesture can make a big impression. It shows that you value the connection enough to put in extra effort, setting you apart from the majority who might send a quick email or no follow-up at all.
- Send Business and Referrals
One of the most powerful ways to strengthen your network is by actively sending business and referrals to your contacts. This principle of “givers gain” is at the heart of effective networking. By helping others succeed, you not only build goodwill but also position yourself as a valuable connection.
Keep your ears open for opportunities that might benefit people in your network. When you hear of a need that someone in your network could fulfill, make the connection. Even if it doesn’t lead to immediate business, your thoughtfulness will be remembered.
- Always Keep Your Networking Contacts in Mind
Make it a habit to constantly think about your network. Whenever you encounter a situation or hear of a need, ask yourself, “Who in my network could help with this?” Then, make the introduction.
This approach extends beyond just business opportunities. If you read an article that might interest someone in your network, send it to them. If you know two people in your network who might benefit from knowing each other, introduce them.
By consistently adding value to your network in this way, you position yourself as a connector and a valuable resource. This not only strengthens your existing relationships but often leads to new connections as people start to see you as a go-to person in your field.
Conclusion
Building a strong networking well takes time and consistent effort, but the rewards are immeasurable. By following these seven steps consistently, you’ll create a network that can help you accomplish your goals faster than you ever thought possible. Remember, networking is not about collecting contacts; it’s about cultivating relationships. Focus on adding value, being genuine, and thinking long-term. Before you know it, you’ll have a well full of valuable connections ready to help you navigate any challenge or opportunity that comes your way.
Citations:
[1] https://ppl-ai-file-upload.s3.amazonaws.com/web/direct-files/16249897/13d225e7-9980-402f-a898-3a14123a43d1/paste.txt
[2] https://ppl-ai-file-upload.s3.amazonaws.com/web/direct-files/16249897/5248f660-7dbc-4c1d-b67a-092e090cef0c/paste-2.txt
