You’re having trouble managing your business networking schedule. What’s the best way to get back on track?

1 Prioritize your goals

Before you sign up for any networking event or platform, ask yourself what your main goals are. Do you want to meet potential clients, partners, mentors, or peers? Do you want to learn new skills, insights, or trends? Do you want to showcase your expertise, brand, or products? By having a clear idea of what you want to achieve, you can focus your time and energy on the most relevant and rewarding networking opportunities.

2 Choose your platforms wisely

There are many networking platforms available, such as LinkedIn, Clubhouse, Twitter, and Facebook groups. Each one has its own features, benefits, and drawbacks. You don’t have to join every platform that exists, but rather select the ones that best suit your goals, preferences, and industry. For example, if you want to connect with influencers and thought leaders, you might prefer Clubhouse or Twitter. If you want to build your professional profile and network, you might prefer LinkedIn or Facebook groups. Once you choose your platforms, make sure you optimize your profile, follow the etiquette, and engage with your connections regularly.

3 Plan your events carefully

Networking events can be a great way to meet new people, exchange ideas, and create opportunities. But they can also be time-consuming, expensive, and exhausting. To make the most of your events, you need to plan them carefully. First, research the event details, such as the agenda, speakers, attendees, and format. Second, set your objectives, such as how many people you want to meet, what you want to learn, or what you want to offer. Third, prepare your pitch, materials, and follow-up strategy. Fourth, schedule your events in advance, and avoid overbooking yourself or clashing with other commitments.

4 Track your progress and results

One of the most important aspects of managing your networking schedule is tracking your progress and results. This will help you measure your effectiveness, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and adjust your strategy accordingly. You can use various tools and methods to track your networking activities, such as spreadsheets, calendars, CRM systems, or apps. Some of the metrics you can track include the number of connections you make, the quality of your interactions, the feedback you receive, the referrals you generate, and the opportunities you create.

5 Balance your networking and work

Networking is not a one-time activity, but a continuous process that requires time, effort, and consistency. However, networking should not interfere with your work or personal life. You need to balance your networking and work by setting boundaries, managing your expectations, and delegating tasks. For example, you can limit your networking time to a certain number of hours per week, set realistic goals for each session, and outsource or automate some of the administrative tasks, such as sending emails, scheduling meetings, or updating profiles. By doing so, you can avoid burnout, stress, and distraction, and enjoy the benefits of networking.

6 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?