Networking is not a 1 night stand
Do you enjoy networking and meeting new people?
It’s such a joy for me to meet new people, wherever I am…at church, the library, grocery store, school events, community events as well as industry specific networking events! I’ve had this gift for as long as I can remember. I absolutely love meeting new people and really thrive in settings where I get to network and meet new people and hear about the exciting things they have going on!!
Often times, we think of networking as a “One Night Stand”, we get/give our cards out, have a great conversation and that’s it!!! However, true networking starts and thrives only when we put into practice these key points:
- Follow up, follow up, within 48 hours, connect on LinkedIn or send an email-the sooner the better, the spark is still there!
- Ask for a meeting/coffee and get more acquainted-find out how you can assist, offer your expertise, be willing to make a referral and make introductions!
- Operate in excellence-if you say you’ll be there, SHOW UP, if you need to reschedule do so, give grace, life happens!
- Trust the process and be patient, Rome wasn’t built overnight, building real relationships take time and with your efforts and patience, amazing collaborations as well as life long relationships will and can occur!
These are just a few points…What are some other tips/tools that have worked for you? Please share! Keep the conversation going!
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I’ve been described as a serial networker and know that it’s one of my strengths, speaking of strengths…..My greatest strength is WOO.
WOO stands for winning others over. At the heart, WOO is a social Intelligence theme. People with the strength of WOO have a great capacity to inspire and motivate others. Have you had a chance to read Strengths Finder 2.0? I recommend it, its such a great read, and helps you hone in and operate full in the place where your’e best!
Kesha Kent BA, MAOL