I have been involved in networking for over 30 years and have found it invaluable for my business and social life. I have met and made some lifelong friends, met people who have interests totally diverse from my own and I have experienced many cultures and people of diversity that have enriched my life and I hope it will continue to do so.
But how do you make a network work for you. There are some ground rules to take into consideration when looking at which network to join and how best to make them work for you.
Decide your Goal – What do I want to achieve from this group.
- To find a Mentor / specific people who I can meet with regularly.
- To find potential clients or suppliers
- To find someone who is where I want to be so I can learn from them.
- To engage in a joint venture or affiliate relationship.
- To join a group who can help you find answers to specific issues.
- Find experts in a specific sector.
- Broaden your social network through Sports and Hobby Groups
- Charitable groups – looking to donate time and share knowledge.
Introduce yourself and explain clearly what you can offer!
- Take your time and write out a few introductions that explains who you are and what you do. Do not be too formal or use terms that others may not be familiar with. You know what you do but others do not. Keep it simple.
- Tell people what you would like. If you need a Mentor or want to meet a group on a weekly basis then say it.
- Do not forget to let people know that you are open to helping others and happy to answer questions.
- Get Involved with Discussions
- There is no point in staying in the background and people watch.
- Even worse is not opening the page after you join.
- Participate in online conversations – this is how people get to know more about your character and persona.
- If someone has a Bio that is interesting to you, ask them about their career and how they got to where they are. We all have plenty of wisdom to share.
- Offer your expertise perhaps by organizing an online Demo or a Q & A live session.
- Ask for help if you need it – ask for referrals and do the same in the return.
Maintenance of Relationships
- Keep in touch by emails.
- Call them now and again to check in on people and say hello.
- Meet for a coffee/a sports game/hobby group.
- Make a mental note to call/email/meet at least 3 people every month.
- Develop relationships where people really to know the essence of you and vice versa.
Have fun with it. You could well meet new friends that could be life changing.
Georgina Kelly – Business Mentor l Sales Trainer l Customer Service Trainer
www.georginakellyme.com