Networking Tips to Build an Influential Network

I don’t want to pass up the opportunity to share an article I read about networking. Here are a few highlights:

Yes, building a robust network takes effort. But it may be the best thing you’ll ever do for your career. Everyone needs connections, no matter how hard it can be to leave your comfort zone and reach out to other people. Forming relationships with a variety of people expands your possibilities. You’ll be exposing yourself to new ideas and opportunities that would otherwise remain hidden. This is especially true when you’re looking for a career change or thinking of starting something new.

You might feel as if you don’t even know where to begin. The number of networking opportunities is vast, and you can easily get overwhelmed. Just remember, it’s not about how many contacts you can rack up—networking about creating strong bonds with others who will enrich your career journey.

Ways to Build a Powerful Network

1. Say “Yes!”

Potentially valuable connections are everywhere, but you won’t find them if you constantly turn down invitations. Expand your horizons by putting yourself out there. Go to that Chamber of Commerce meeting or college alumni weekend. Attend your professional association’s monthly guest lecture series. Your odds of finding exciting additions to your network grow with every RSVP.

It’s all about becoming more visible and looking for ways to make connections—even in situations where you don’t necessarily know the right people. You never know who knows a recruiter at one of the companies you’ve dreamed of working for.

2.?Take a Chance

While not every person you’d like to connect with will be gracious with their time, muster your courage to make the first move. You may be pleasantly surprised when a high-level exec grants your request for an informational interview or that speaker whose presentation you enjoyed chats for 10 minutes.

Don’t wait for a conversation to materialise. You can’t network effectively if you don’t talk with people! Strike up a warm and friendly discussion on your way out of the lecture hall or as you line up for the guest speaker reception. Keep your eyes open for those “perfect” moments when you can introduce yourself to that person standing alone in casual settings.

3. Seek Career Diversity

Peers in your same industry or age range certainly have a place in your network, but they shouldn’t be all of it. Make a pointed effort to push beyond your comfort zone to meet people who aren’t just like you.

“Generational intelligence and network diversity are key to gaining rich and varied perspectives and in building a truly strong network,” says Patti DeNucci, author of?The Intentional Networker: Attracting Powerful Relationships, Referrals & Results in Business. “Try being with people who are five, 10, 15, or even 20 years ahead on the career path. Talk to and get to know people doing a wide range of jobs and having a wide range of experiences. It’s how you know where you want to be.”

4. Know Your Network’s Network

A quick way to expand your network is to ask people already in it to introduce those in their circle. Assistance from a mutual acquaintance can make breaking the ice less daunting. Ask your contacts to pick their brains for individuals they think would benefit you to meet.

Don’t underestimate the power of networking on LinkedIn, either. You never know who might be in your network’s circle. Schedule time to be active and intentionally engage with relevant and thoughtful commentary.

5. Reciprocate

Finally, always remember that networking is a two-way street. Be alert to ways to build goodwill. Pass along articles of interest. Arrange introductions. Invite someone to lunch. Congratulate them on their achievements. Express interest in their research. Comment on their posts.

People forming bonds and genuinely wanting to assist one another is the heart of networking. Enthusiasm and interest in others will make people want to interact with you.

Invest in Your Network

One of the best ways to have a rewarding career filled with possibilities is by building a network. The more genuine connections you have, the easier it will be to find jobs and perfect opportunities. It’s time to start investing in others by sincerely listening and taking chances on new projects or relationships!

Remember, networking, at its essence, is straightforward. We tend to overcomplicate it. It’s all about showing genuine interest when meeting someone new—asking them about themselves and what they do outside of work so you can learn their passions and interests too.

Want to know more? Head on over to the full article here for more ideas and perspectives. Afterwards, why not drop me an email to share your thoughts at [email protected] ; or call me on 0467 749 378.

Thanks,

Robert