Here's how you can leverage networking to prepare for the future of your career.

Building rapport is crucial for effective networking. In digital marketing, especially on LinkedIn, engaging deeply with your connections can set you apart. Share your goals and listen to theirs. This mutual exchange builds trust and makes your network more likely to think of you when opportunities arise. For example, if you admire a professional's work, comment thoughtfully on their posts or share their content with your network. By showing genuine interest and offering help, you create a positive impression that can lead to lasting professional relationships. Remember, your network is your net worth.

Building rapport is an essential networking skill. Practice makes purpose. One of the best ways to build rapport is to be interested in others. Ask questions about them. Most people love talking about themselves. As the adage goes, people won't care about you until they know how much you care. As you focus on learning about the people you meet when you engage with them, you'll make them feel seen, heard, and better about themselves. Master this skill and doors will open naturally to enhance your career.

Rapport is an outcome of trust and that's not built via a silver bullet. It's a series of outcomes and consistent effort that both the sides see before transactions get converted into trust and continuity. Networking is an outcome of these aspects and I've tried and maintained that through the solid foundation of relationship that has been built and nurtured over time.

When we move beyond our comfort zone to speak and connect only with people we know... ...we create benchmarks of not just connection but what comes in the process is tons of learning & discovering. This is what matters in the long run to create that much needed impact.

An idea is to host virtual coffee chats that bring together professionals from diverse fields, fostering cross-industry insights. This helps in expanding your network in unexpected directions. You may also consider a series about your expertise on social media where you share behind-the-scenes looks at your learning process and thought leadership, positioning yourself as a forward-thinking and relatable expert in your field.

Diversity is so powerful when networking! It's easy to stick to your normal kind of go-to connections - be adventurous when you network and cross your own boundary lines every now and then ??

What makes any individual or ecosystem stand out is the support and treatment we give to others. The age old adage...what you give comes back to you holds strong today and will continue to be relevant even in times ahead. We have to first be a giver before we look at extracting from others. Giving > Taking

Identifying career interests and goals helps you connect with the right people and in your field of interest. Staying up to date on the latest developments, blogs, newsletters.

Best business online networking strategy: 1. Connect with people you admire 2. Give them skill endorsements 3. 99% of the time, they will get back to you to say thank you 4. Send a message to discuss a topic they posted about and share your thoughts 5. Comment on their posts This is how you get your name visible and this is how you build network

I've been a firm believer of this for years now. Having built a connection...I've always strived to sustain and maintain them with the ups & downs of life. This has also made me feel about the relevance of life and what's the purpose for which we all stand for. Celebrating milestones, standing with others when they need help, supporting others with meaningful connections are avenues that surely adds and aids in a variety of ways.

Nurturing connections is crucial for effective networking, not just for your career but also for running your own business. It’s about maintaining and growing relationships over time. Here are some tips: 1. Personalized Check-Ins: Regularly reach out with personalized messages and show genuine interest in your connections' achievements. 2. Celebrate Milestones: Congratulate your network on their successes to strengthen your relationship. 3. Provide Value: Share relevant articles, resources, or opportunities that benefit your connections. 4. Host/Attend Events: Engage in industry events to maintain and expand your network. 5. Seek/Offer Advice: Reach out for insights and offer your support when needed.