How do you develop and maintain your professional network and relationships as a manager?

In my experience, I have found that having a clear understanding of your networking goals is paramount to making meaningful connections. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of networking events and activities, but without a clear purpose, you may end up wasting time and energy on interactions that do not align with your objectives. For instance, when I was transitioning into a new industry, I set a specific networking goal of finding a mentor who could provide guidance and insights into the field. I researched industry events and reached out to professionals whose expertise aligned with my interests. By having a specific goal in mind, I was able to engage in focused conversations and establish a mentoring relationship.

I often get messages from random people on Linkedin and in the very first message, they try hard to sell their product/service. I think this is a grave mistake. When you want to reach out to a cold prospect, first try to establish a genuine relationship with them. You can do this by 'liking' or commenting on their recent post, asking them questions about their organisation or sharing any useful resource (ex: eBook). After you win their trust, you are better placed to talk about your offerings.

When I think about the power of my network, the first people that come to mind are my current coworkers. They've played a crucial role in my growth as a people leader and manager. Within my organization, there are many individuals whose paths I might never cross if I didn't stay curious and intentionally create space for casual conversations. Fortunately, our office culture embraces the idea of the 30-minute (often virtual) coffee chat, so I don't have to be shy when I want to meet someone new. Networking within your own company helps build "connective tissue" between teams. It can also ignite creativity and and adds layers of perspective to make you a well-rounded and more inclusive leader (and human!).

I don't think you jump right to identifying and reaching out to people who can help you achieve your goals. Can you find a community to contribute to that gives you meaningful networking opportunities first? Can you provide meaningful value to a group before you ask for a return of that value to you?

The timeless question on thank you notes: to send or not to send? For me, what truly matters is expressing sincere gratitude for the other person's time -- the way you choose to do it can be whatever feels authentic in that particular situation. Personally, I believe that wrapping up a cold-call networking session with a heartfelt "thank you" (in person or over the phone) is totally enough. No need to make an additional touchpoint, unless you really want to! And if you do end up landing the job, it can be a nice gesture to send a quick update to those who helped you along your journey.

I have found the following pointers helpful on the topic of "Leverage and reciprocate": > Seek and give referrals, recommendations, endorsements, or introductions to or from trusted contacts. > Collaborate on projects. > Join or create communities with shared interests. > Share and seek referrals, recommendations, endorsements, or introductions. > Contribute articles, shares, constructive comments, and insights > Offer a heartfelt 'Congratulations' on a promotion or other good news. > Send a message with a sincere 'How can I help?' during a challenging time. > Actively participate or lead in communities. By nurturing a culture of reciprocation, one fosters long-lasting, mutually-beneficial relationships.