Here's how you can network and build relationships with potential clients or customers effectively.

In the realm of networking, personalization is the secret sauce that transforms casual encounters into enduring connections. Think beyond generic elevator pitches and instead focus on tailoring your approach to each individual you encounter. Taking the time to understand someone's unique needs, interests, and background led to a deeper connection and ultimately opened doors to new opportunities.

Dice John Maxwell que "el amor es muy rentable" y es algo que he ido comprobando a lo largo de mi vida. Mi enfoque principal está en la productividad, y desde que recuerdo mi meta estaba siempre en reducir tiempos muertos, orientarme al objetivo y alinear a quienes pudieran perderlo de vista. Ahora como empresaria puedo darme cuenta que conectar con los clientes, leads, e incluso con proveedores y todo el equipo, marca una diferencia radical. Esas actividades que veía como "tiempo muerto" donde no se habla en absoluto de trabajo, pero de los sue?os, los miedos, el deseo o propósito detrás de la meta... Esos momentos son la clave para que dejes de ser un simple proveedor y te conviertas en un aliado, un verdadero socio de negocio.

Authentic engagement is the cornerstone of effective networking. Authenticity fosters an environment where mutual respect and understanding thrive, leading to organic and meaningful connections.

Before connecting or networking with others to determine what their interest is or needs - get to know them. Who are they? What is their company all about? What brought them to the networking event that you met them at. Starting a relationship with someone takes time. Fast tracking to how you can solve their problems can be off putting.

In any successful relationship, we want to give as much as we get. But when it comes to clients and customers, most of the time it's all about the getting. Whether you're in the corporate workplace or you're an entrepreneur, if the existing customers you're calling on or potential new clients you're wooing have a sense that all they're being asked of is how they can help YOU, then you've lost them. Instead of being focused on the GETTING, focus on the GIVING. That looks different for each customer. Perhaps you offer to connect them to someone with resources your customer is looking for. Perhaps it's thinking of their business or needs proactively and finding a solution before being asked. Add value first, always.

By consistently offering value without strings attached, I've cultivated a reputation as a trusted leader and coach, opening doors to future client engagements based on mutual respect and appreciation.

Consistent follow-up is the lifeblood of relationship-building in networking. If you make a consistent follow up and suggesting next steps, you'll be able to foster genuine connections that will lay the groundwork for future collaboration.

Following up with your team is essential, showing your commitment to positive organizational change, and fostering healthy work relationships.

Social media can help expand one's reach, especially platforms geared to professional individuals and groups, like LinkedIn. Being omnipresent across social media is a great long-term goal, but initially, to not exhaust oneself, it's best to focus on the platforms with the best ROI.

The best, long lasting relationships sometimes take time. You have to let the relationship marinate and take the time to build healthy relationships on a solid foundation.