What do you do if you want to enhance your networking skills and grow your professional network as a leader?

1 Know your goals

Before you start reaching out to people, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve from your networking efforts. Do you want to find mentors, collaborators, customers, or peers? Do you want to learn new skills, get feedback, or explore new fields? Having specific and realistic goals will help you focus your energy and time on the most relevant and valuable contacts.

2 Be proactive and consistent

Networking is not a one-time event, but a continuous process that requires initiative and persistence. You need to actively seek out and create opportunities to connect with people who share your interests, values, or goals. You can use various platforms and channels, such as social media, online forums, webinars, podcasts, or newsletters, to find and follow potential contacts. You can also join or create communities, groups, or events that align with your niche or industry. However, don't just be a passive observer or consumer. You need to engage with your contacts regularly, by commenting, sharing, asking, or offering value.

3 Be authentic and curious

Networking is not about collecting contacts or selling yourself. It is about building genuine and meaningful relationships based on mutual trust and respect. You need to be yourself and show interest in the people you connect with. You need to listen to their stories, challenges, and aspirations, and ask open-ended questions that encourage dialogue and learning. You also need to share your own insights, experiences, and perspectives, and show how you can add value to their goals or needs. Don't be afraid to be vulnerable, honest, and humble, as this will help you create rapport and empathy.

4 Be strategic and selective

Networking is not about quantity, but quality. You don't need to connect with everyone you meet or encounter online. You need to be selective and strategic about who you invest your time and energy in. You need to identify and prioritize the contacts who are most relevant, influential, or supportive for your goals. You also need to diversify your network and seek out contacts who can offer different perspectives, insights, or opportunities. You can use tools such as CRM (customer relationship management) software, spreadsheets, or calendars, to organize and track your contacts and interactions.

5 Be generous and grateful

Networking is not a one-way street, but a reciprocal exchange of value. You need to be generous and grateful with your contacts, by offering your help, support, or resources, without expecting anything in return. You need to show appreciation and recognition for their contributions, feedback, or referrals, by sending thank-you notes, testimonials, or endorsements. You also need to follow up and follow through on your promises, commitments, or actions, by delivering on time, updating on progress, or sharing results.

Networking is a skill that can be learned and improved with practice and intention. By following these tips, you can enhance your networking skills and grow your professional network as a leader, and reap the benefits of more opportunities, learning, and influence.