How can you network with industry thought leaders and build lasting relationships?

As the founder of Women Of Project Management (www.WomenOfPM.com), I created a community to support women in a male-dominated field, addressing the feeling of being the "only." My approach to networking involves leveraging our community platform for meaningful connections, focusing on mutual growth, and being consistently involved. Authenticity is key; I share my experiences openly, fostering trust and deeper connections. I also emphasize offering value, engaging in mentorship, and embracing diverse perspectives. This approach has enabled me to build lasting relationships with industry thought leaders, enriching both my professional journey and the community.

Identify what your objectives and goals are. See if that aligns with your long-term career pathways and then collaborate with leaders who can help you mentor and coach along the way. Making them realise that you have a passion and a hustle to achieve your career goals would help engage with them effectively. Social media platforms like LinkedIn play a vital role in the network. Similarly, attend career fairs, expos, seminars and other such events for face to face collaboration.

For scaling up the relationship with various Industries and Enterprises. It depends upon your quality, Good Will and Input of the Training. Industries hire the services of those trainers who are competent to train their employees in an enthusiastic manner and with a stipulate time frame. In the present time, every one talk about " Creativity and Innovations". So, a Trainer/ Facilitator should be a well versed personality. A Trainer should be a charismatic personality. Usually, in a new trend of Training, a Trainer show as a Magician ( Zadoogar), they creates a humor and false findings by their statements. In the real life, their Shine worlds Philosophy becomes a non-preforming assets ,at result no growth products.

Have your goals laid out and show up! Meeting people face to face and getting yourself out there goes a long way in building professional relationships.

This has worked for me: 1. Identify Thought Leaders: Research and identify key influencers and thought leaders in your industry. This could include individuals with a strong online presence, those who have authored influential publications, or experts who frequently speak at industry events. 2. Attend Industry Events: Attend conferences, seminars, workshops, and other industry events where thought leaders are likely to participate. 3. Engage on Social Media: Follow thought leaders on social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and industry-specific forums.

Ah, the dance with industry thought leaders begins with the first step of research. You don't just walk up to someone; you approach them with an understanding of their work, their challenges, and their interests. Start by examining their published content, interviews, and social media activity. This is not just due diligence; its strategic intelligence gathering. Think about it like crafting a bespoke suit – every piece of information allows for a better fit. Connect personally. Acknowledge achievements. Find shared interests. Make your message resonate for effective communication. Be the person who brings something to the table. Add value at every step to stand out in their inbox and be part of their journey.

While thorough research on potential contacts is valuable, it’s essential to balance it with a degree of openness. Avoid over-reliance on preconceived notions based solely on gathered information. Sometimes, being too focused on details might hinder the discovery of unexpected synergies or opportunities in your interaction. Striking a balance between preparedness and adaptability ensures that you approach conversations with a fresh perspective, allowing for organic and genuine connections to unfold.

Research is the key. Being well prepared is half the job done when reaching out to thought leaders. The communication should sound like a conversation which is bang on and resonates with them. This will make the thought leaders curious and interested to take it forward and make it a dialogue. In the era of Linkedin, thorough research and to the point preparation is a no brainer.

Thorough research before networking is the linchpin to success, allowing you to understand industry dynamics, trends, and the backgrounds of thought leaders. This knowledge empowers you to engage in informed conversations, showcasing genuine interest and respect. It aids in identifying common interests, mutual connections, or shared projects, providing valuable conversation starters. Also, it helps you pinpoint the right individuals aligned with your goals. Based on insights gathered, a tailored approach shows commitment and fosters meaningful connections. Indeed, research transforms networking from a generic exchange into a strategic endeavor, amplifying the potential for forging lasting and mutually beneficial professional relationships.

Before reaching out to industry leaders, take the time to dig into their background. Explore their accomplishments, current projects, and what drives them professionally. This research not only helps tailor your approach but also signals your genuine interest. Use these insights to kickstart conversations that go beyond the surface, showcasing your sincere commitment to building a meaningful connection.

"Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value." - Albert Einstein It can be flattering to be approached by someone who wants to learn from you and benefit from the value YOU bring, but it can also be draining. When approaching someone you want build as a power partner consider the value you can bring to them FIRST. Research who they are, what they do, and how you can be of service. Here on LinkedIn, it's all about the power of our networks; I'll often ask if there is anyone from my network I can make an introduction to in order to help promote their mission. This gives me credibility, offers allyship, and starts the conversation for greater reciprocity. Treat the first impression with care, you only get to make one.

Always ask yourself, "What am I bringing to the table?" and "Why would these individuals want to engage with me?" While your eagerness to learn is vital, consider what unique value you bring. It might not only be expertise; perhaps you can volunteer or work pro bono. Donating to a cause they support is another option. Whatever you choose, strive to stand out and contribute meaningfully to the interaction.

My experience has been that I have been approached by too many sales people in leadership development. The most impacting approaches have been relationships and learning first.

Reaching out with value is the most critical part, I often get invites & and emails with the most generic messages, typically a sales pitch or a hunt for a job. 1. Put efforts in writing why do you appreciate the individual 2. If you have liked, pick an excerpt from their recent article, speech etc. and mention why you liked it 3. Do not hesitate to call out, how the leader helped with your thought process or any other benefit

Your value can be as simple as sharing their posts and adding insightful comments to their posts. It can also be things like invitations to your own events, podcast interviews, curation of articles. This way you can start more meaningful collaboration right away, exploring and deepening knowledge and content creation together! #scalewithanar

The key is genuinely getting to know these leaders as people first. Comment thoughtfully on their content, ask thoughtful questions. If appropriate, suggest meeting for a quick coffee or virtual chat to continue the dialogue. Prepare by understanding their background and passions. In conversation, listen intently to their vision and perspectives. Offer humble suggestions if you believe you can make an introduction to someone that can assist them. The goal is not to get something but understand their goals and challenges. If you can provide value, the relationship will grow organically over time. Follow up with personal notes on how their insights helped you. Show gratitude for their time and wisdom. Leaders with integrity will reciprocate.

While consistent follow-up is valuable, it’s essential to recognize that each prospect is unique. Some may prefer a more direct and frequent engagement, while others might appreciate a more measured and strategic approach. Tailor your follow-up strategy based on the individual’s communication style and preferences. Overly persistent or generic follow-ups can risk becoming intrusive, potentially undermining the rapport-building process. It’s crucial to strike a balance that reflects respect for the prospect’s preferences and fosters a relationship built on mutual understanding and collaboration.

There are various ways to grab someone's attention, such as reading their content, enrolling in their courses (if they offer any), following them on all their social media platforms, commenting on their posts, sharing their materials, and tagging them. However, it is important to be genuine about it and take the time to get to know them better. By doing so, you can position yourself to be noticed.

Here are some key strategies to consider: Express Gratitude: Acknowledge and appreciate the prospect's response to your initial message. Provide Value: Offer additional insights, resources, or expert advice that aligns with their interests and needs. Seek Feedback: Encourage their input and perspectives, demonstrating a genuine interest in their thoughts. Initiate Conversations and Invite Collaboration: Propose engaging conversations or suggest mutually beneficial collaborations. Showcase Your Presence: Comment on their posts, share their content, or introduce them to relevant contacts, expanding their network.

Networking isn't a one-and-done deal; it's about maintaining momentum. Follow up with purposeful engagement, demonstrating your sustained interest. Share meaningful updates or insights that complement their professional journey. Keep the interaction dynamic by inviting their input and staying in tune with their industry developments. It's more than just networking; it's about actively nurturing connections.

Finding the ways to associate with thought leaders is cracking formula to the entire exercise being a success. Ask to work for a project, if they are on some project and need any help or show up at their event or seminar. This is the most authentic way to create value and nurture the relationship in a sustainable manner at the same time.

In the dynamic and interconnected world of business and entrepreneurship, building and nurturing relationships with industry thought leaders is an invaluable strategy for professional growth and development. These connections can provide access to valuable insights, guidance, opportunities, and support, propelling individuals towards their professional goals. Nurturing relationships requires consistent effort and genuine engagement. Stay in touch regularly by exchanging meaningful messages, attending industry events together, or collaborating on projects. Acknowledge their accomplishments, offer support and encouragement, and proactively seek their guidance, mentorship, or collaboration when appropriate.

To nurture professional relationships, regularly communicate, celebrate their achievements, and offer support. Exchange opportunities and referrals, and seek their advice when appropriate. Be genuine and treat the relationship as more than just a transaction.

Networking with industry thought leaders is akin to joining an ongoing, high-level conversation. When you seek to build these lasting relationships, consider the following: Value Exchange: Position yourself as a peer who brings value. Consistency: Regular interaction is key. Personal Touch: When you do make contact, personalize it. Patience and Persistence: Real relationships take time to build. Mutual Interests: Find common ground beyond work. Professional Growth: Continue to grow and share your journey. Meeting in Person: If the opportunity arises, attend conferences or industry events they're part of. Leverage Multiple Platforms. Be a Thought Leader Yourself. Mind the Follow-Up.

Whenever possible try to offer double the value that you seek to receive from the individual. Always try to give more than you get.

Take your networking to the next level with the principle of reciprocity. Explore ways to actively contribute and support your connections. Whether it's sharing valuable resources, facilitating introductions, or teaming up on projects, building strong relationships involves a give-and-take approach. Cultivate an environment where everyone benefits, showcasing the power of reciprocal networking.