How do you leverage your existing network to find new opportunities and referrals?

1 Define your purpose

Before you reach out to your network, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and how you can help others. Do you want to find a new job, a mentor, a partner, or a client? Do you have a specific problem, project, or opportunity that you need advice or support for? Do you have something valuable to offer, such as a skill, a referral, or a recommendation? Having a clear purpose will help you identify who to contact, what to say, and how to follow up.

2 Choose the right channel

Depending on your purpose and your relationship with the person, you may choose different channels to communicate with your network. For example, you may use email, phone, social media, or video calls to reach out to someone you already know well, or someone you met at a recent event. You may use a mutual contact, an online platform, or a formal introduction to connect with someone you don't know yet, or someone who is influential or busy. You may use a newsletter, a blog, or a podcast to share your expertise, insights, or stories with a wider audience. Choose the channel that is most appropriate, convenient, and effective for your situation.

3 Customize your message

When you contact someone in your network, you want to make a good impression and show that you care about them and their interests. To do that, you need to customize your message and avoid generic or spammy requests. For example, you may mention something specific that you learned from them, something that you have in common, or something that you admire about them. You may also ask them a relevant question, offer them a compliment, or provide them with some useful information. You may also explain why you are contacting them, what you hope to achieve, and how you can help them in return.

5 Add value and gratitude

One of the most important networking skills is to add value and gratitude to your network. To add value, you need to think about how you can help the people you contact, not just how they can help you. You may offer them a referral, a recommendation, a testimonial, or a feedback. You may share with them a resource, a tip, a tool, or a opportunity. You may introduce them to someone else in your network who can benefit them. To express gratitude, you need to thank the people who help you, acknowledge their contribution, and show your appreciation. You may send them a thank-you note, a gift, or a shout-out. You may also reciprocate their favor, endorse their work, or promote their brand.

6 Follow up and stay in touch

The last networking skill that you need to master is to follow up and stay in touch with your network. To follow up, you need to keep the conversation going and update the people you contact on your progress, results, or feedback. You may also ask them for further advice, feedback, or support if needed. You may also invite them to another event, meeting, or call if appropriate. To stay in touch, you need to keep your network updated and engaged with your work, achievements, or challenges. You may also check in with them regularly, congratulate them on their successes, or support them in their difficulties. You may also look for opportunities to reconnect, collaborate, or refer them to others.