How do you create a strategic networking plan?

1 Define your purpose

Before you start reaching out to potential contacts, you need to have a clear idea of why you are networking and what you want to achieve. Your purpose should be specific, realistic, and measurable, and it should align with your long-term career vision. For example, your purpose could be to learn more about a certain industry, to find a mentor, to explore new opportunities, or to expand your customer base. Having a clear purpose will help you focus your efforts and communicate your value proposition to your contacts.

2 Identify your target contacts

Once you have defined your purpose, you need to identify who you want to connect with and how they can help you achieve it. Your target contacts should be relevant, influential, and accessible, and they should have a mutual interest in building a relationship with you. You can use various sources to find your target contacts, such as online platforms, industry events, referrals, alumni networks, or media outlets. You can also create a list of criteria to narrow down your search, such as location, industry, role, organization, or expertise.

3 Leverage your existing network

You don't have to start from scratch when it comes to networking. You already have a network of people who know you, trust you, and can vouch for you. These are your existing contacts, such as colleagues, friends, family, mentors, clients, or suppliers. You can leverage your existing network to access your target contacts, by asking for introductions, recommendations, or feedback. You can also strengthen your existing relationships by providing value, support, or recognition to your contacts, and by staying in touch regularly.

4 Plan your outreach strategy

Once you have identified your target contacts and leveraged your existing network, you need to plan how you will reach out to them and initiate a conversation. Your outreach strategy should be tailored to each contact, based on their preferences, availability, and goals. You should also consider the best channel, timing, and tone for your communication, and prepare a compelling message that explains who you are, why you are reaching out, and what you are offering or asking for.

5 Follow up and follow through

Networking is not a one-time event, but a continuous process of building and maintaining relationships. After you have reached out to your contacts, you need to follow up and follow through with them, to show your interest, appreciation, and commitment. You can follow up by sending a thank-you note, sharing relevant information, asking for feedback, or scheduling a meeting. You can follow through by delivering on your promises, updating your contacts on your progress, or asking for referrals.

6 Evaluate and adjust your plan

Networking is not a static activity, but a dynamic one that requires constant evaluation and adjustment. You need to monitor your networking results and measure them against your purpose and goals. You can use various tools, such as spreadsheets, databases, or apps, to track your contacts, interactions, and outcomes. You can also solicit feedback from your contacts, mentors, or peers, to identify your strengths and weaknesses, and to improve your networking skills. Based on your evaluation, you can adjust your plan accordingly, by adding, removing, or modifying your contacts, strategies, or actions.

7 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?