You want to connect with other facilitation professionals. How can you build a network that lasts?

1 Find your tribe

The first step to building a lasting network is to find your tribe. Your tribe is a group of people who have similar interests, goals, and values as you. They are the ones who understand your challenges, celebrate your successes, and inspire you to learn and improve. To find your tribe, you need to be proactive and intentional. You can start by searching for online communities, events, and groups related to facilitation. For example, you can join the International Association of Facilitators (IAF), a global network of facilitators that offers resources, certification, and events. You can also look for local chapters, meetups, or workshops that focus on facilitation topics and skills. Another way to find your tribe is to ask for referrals from your existing contacts, clients, or mentors. They might know someone who can introduce you to a relevant network or opportunity.

2 Be generous and authentic

Once you find your tribe, you need to be generous and authentic. Being generous means offering value and support to others without expecting anything in return. You can do this by sharing your insights, experiences, and resources with your network. You can also offer feedback, advice, or mentorship to those who need it. Being authentic means showing your true self and personality to your network. You can do this by expressing your opinions, values, and passions with confidence and respect. You can also show your vulnerability, curiosity, and humor with your network. Being generous and authentic will help you build trust, credibility, and rapport with your network.

3 Stay in touch and follow up

The last step to building a lasting network is to stay in touch and follow up. Staying in touch means maintaining regular communication and interaction with your network. You can do this by sending emails, messages, or calls to check in, update, or congratulate your network. You can also use social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook, to share relevant content, comment, or like your network's posts. Following up means taking action and following through on your promises or commitments to your network. You can do this by delivering on your referrals, recommendations, or introductions. You can also send thank-you notes, feedback requests, or testimonials to your network. Staying in touch and following up will help you keep your network engaged, interested, and loyal.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?