Meeting new people can be challenging, especially if you are an introvert or have a busy schedule. However, you don't have to start from scratch. You can use your existing network to expand your circle of contacts and build meaningful relationships. Here are some tips on how to do that.
Before you reach out to your network, think about what kind of people you want to meet and why. Are you looking for potential clients, partners, mentors, or friends? What are your common interests, values, or goals? Having a clear purpose will help you focus your efforts and communicate your value proposition.
Make your intentions clear; what you are looking for ("my ideal client is XYZ") and what you may be able to offer in return (an intro to a client or someone else in your network) so that the connections benefit you both and are more likely to continue.
Offer Value: When reaching out to new connections within your existing network, focus on what value you can offer. Whether it's sharing insights, providing assistance, or collaborating on a project, offering value enhances the likelihood of building meaningful relationships.
Before you reach out to your network, think about what kind of people you want to meet and why. Are you looking for potential clients, partners, mentors, or friends? What are your common interests, values, or goals? Having a clear purpose will help you focus your efforts and communicate your value proposition.
Attend events where your current contacts might be and encourage them to bring along others. Leverage social media to connect with their connections, and seek introductions when possible. Share your interests and expertise to attract like-minded individuals within your network.
Absolutely! I believe that you too can totally agree that you can leverage your current connections to expand your network. It's like a social domino effect—meet someone new through someone you already know.
You probably have multiple platforms where you can connect with your network, such as social media, email, online forums, or blogs. Use them to share your insights, updates, questions, or feedback. This will help you stay visible, relevant, and engaged with your audience. You can also use these platforms to discover new opportunities, events, or groups where you can meet new people.
For me, social media, especially LinkedIn, is a dynamic tool for expanding my professional network. I prioritize: Mutual Connections: I explore mutual connections to discover potential new contacts. Engagement and Personal Branding: Active sharing and engagement help me maintain visibility and interest. Warm Introductions: When possible, I seek introductions through existing connections for a warmer outreach. LinkedIn Groups: Participation in industry-specific groups leads to valuable connections. Targeted Outreach: I send personalized connection requests with a clear purpose in mind. Learning and Sharing: I engage in discussions, seek advice, and contribute insights, fostering meaningful interactions.
Especially as an introvert, leveraging my platforms has been a primary way for me to network successfully. Using social media to meet people who share your interests has proven invaluable for professional connections and mutual collaborations. From interview guests to employees to new colleagues, the opportunities are real when you connect with your online networks.
Be yourself! It is ok to talk and not chase business in every conversation. However, Do not be afraid to ask for introductions or opportunity when your network is there to help! Go to the Friday night trivia, attend the networking event. Use social media apps to help connect and meet new people.
Contact your whole database asking if they are happy with your product and service. Then ask for referrals. Their response will help you network with many more people.
LinkedIn obviously is a great too to build a reputation and reach out to your network. But a strong network is derived from who you are and the work you conduct. If you are known to people within your network for honest and good work you do not need to rely on "connections" on LinkedIn to leverage your network successfully. Connections can be facilitated irrespective of social media!
One of the most effective ways to use your existing network to meet new people is to ask for introductions. Your network can vouch for you and bridge the gap between you and someone you want to know. However, don't just ask for names and contacts. Explain why you want to meet that person, how you can help them, and what you expect from the introduction. Be respectful, polite, and appreciative.
Not everyone is going to be a buyer of your product or service, and that's okay! It's important sometimes to look at the bigger picture as it is a small world that we live in. Ask questions! If someone sits through your sales presentation and realizes they do not have a need for your service, ask them "is there anyone in your network who could benefit from my product/service?" If so, ask for a warm introduction! Now you have a potential buyer and a shoe in the door! You'd be surprised how far this takes you!
After you've detailed why you want to meet someone and how both parties can benefit, don't ask for the intro right away. Instead, ask your contact to first reach out to their connection to see if they're interested in meeting you. This double opt-in approach avoids putting anyone in an awkward spot. It's a win-win; both parties agree to the intro before it happens. But if you're at a networking event, and there's no time for a double opt-in, have a crisp, 30-second description of who you are, what you do, and why the connection would be mutually beneficial. The pitch isn't just to impress the person you're meeting, but also to make it easier for your contact to introduce you. You're essentially giving them the script they can use.
This is one area that I often see fail. People will see a connection they want an introduction to and simply ask for an introduction. There are two parts to this process and its complex. First, is the person you are asking for the intro. How do you know them? How close are you and why would they be willing to help you? Second is their relationship with the person you want to be introduced to. I always find it works better when you are less direct, try being subtle and just mention that you saw they were connected and you would like to ask their advice on something. Try to get them on a call, these things are always easier on the phone. Perhaps if they cant make the intro, they will be able to share some other context that can help you.
Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there! The worst thing that can happen is someone says “no” or “not interested”, right? But what happens if you never even take the shot? Use your networks to share insights about your industry and interests but also to advance yourself, to meet new people, and to give & ask for introductions.
Ask for introductions and give introductions too! It is so rewarding when you connect people, and it builds networking energy. If you're happy to make introductions for others, you'll find that it's easier to ask for one yourself.
Once you get introduced to someone new, don't let the connection fade away. Follow up with them within a reasonable time frame and express your gratitude and interest. Try to schedule a meeting, call, or video chat where you can get to know them better and explore potential collaborations. Don't forget to follow through on any promises, referrals, or recommendations you make or receive.
Follow up can admittedly be the hardest part, because we're all so busy. But the gold is really in continuing the connection. Think about all the impersonal email marketing and follow up we get. When you add the personal touch, even a short check-in to a new contact, it goes so far. Send a voice message and start a real conversation that you can keep going for personal and professional connections.
The introduction is the key, so make sure this is as the name describes a 'warm introduction'. If the person doing the intro for you has a strong relationship they can aid the connection process by framing the value they think they can bring. On the back of that you need to have done some solid research and intelligence gathering so your follow up is relatable and lands well. Again it needs to be personalized and talk to the value you believe you can deliver.
Meeting new people is only the first step. To build lasting relationships, you need to nurture them over time. Keep in touch with your new contacts regularly and provide value, support, or feedback. Show genuine interest in their work, challenges, or achievements. Celebrate their successes and acknowledge their contributions. Be generous, authentic, and trustworthy.
Have a "green thumb" with the relationships you value, and make sure they get enough water, sun, and TLC. Like houseplants, you have to keep an eye on relationships because they truly are living things. Keep your radar up for small opportunities to... * check-in, say "hi" with no particular ask or request * share an article or resource that makes you think of them * when he/she posts something on LinkedIn that catches your eye, be sure to leave a sincere comment Nurtured relationships can be long-lasting and vibrant. It's an investment!
Leverage your existing network by attending events they recommend, joining online groups they're part of, and asking for introductions. Engage with their connections on social media, participate in discussions, and share your expertise. Offer value, be genuine, and express interest in others. Networking isn't just about who you know but also about who knows you through positive interactions within your existing circle.
Utiliser notre réseau existant pour rencontrer de nouvelles personnes est une fa?on efficace et naturelle de développer notre cercle social. En entretenant à la fois nos relations réelles et virtuelles, nous créons des opportunités de rencontres enrichissantes. Les rencontres virtuelles nous permettent de nous connecter avec des personnes partageant nos intérêts et nos passions, tandis que les relations réelles nous offrent une interaction plus authentique. En fusionnant nos deux réseaux, nous amplifions nos chances de nouer des amitiés durables et de découvrir de nouvelles opportunités tant professionnelles que personnelles.
Finally, don't forget to reciprocate and refer your existing network to new people you meet. This will help you strengthen your bonds with both parties and create a positive reputation. You can also create opportunities for others to meet and network by hosting or attending events, webinars, or workshops. By doing this, you will not only use your existing network to meet new people, but also to grow it exponentially.
For me, networking is a two-way street. I reciprocate connections and engage with others. When I see potential synergies within my network, I happily refer or introduce contacts to one another. This approach deepens relationships, adds value, and creates a collaborative and supportive professional ecosystem. It's not just about who I know but how I can facilitate connections for others and foster goodwill within my network.
Networking often boils down to "quid pro quo." I do you a favor in return for a favor. (This might be something to call back upon in future!) As long as you have value and leverage to offer then it can always in up in a mutually beneficial outcome. You should always be perceived as a person that also gives and not just takes!
Always being happy to help and to utilise your network to benefit someone else is an underused way to build influence and goodwill. You can't always give first before you make an "ask" but if possible do so at least a couple of times. The likelihood of a returned referral or favour will be multiplied!
I am a firm believer of "you always meet twice in life!" You can always do someone a favor now for something that might pay off later. Any act of kindness even if there is nothing in return can lead to you being remembered for the right things. If that is for personal progression or general role success. In the end we are all humans and we appreciate kind and caring gestures.
There are many opportunities to connect that we often pass up. Try to identify moments that could give you something to talk about. Here are some examples: - Did something make you think of this person recently? - Did you see a mutual connection? - Were you at the same event but didn't get a chance to chat much? At the very least, this is a very welcoming way to start a conversation and they'll likely be flattered that you thought of them.