Aristotle said, ‘Man is a social animal’. Social interactions happen all the time, the trick is cultivating these connections into relationships. Though we all know the importance of networking, not everyone knows how to maintain it extensively. Without the knowledge of which, networking won’t work. There is a human need behind every relationship. How well you nurture relationships would eventually get you help and a chance to offer assistance.
Networking experts say networks give people access to information, advice, and critical thinking along with other advantages. Over the long run, this access to information gives them a cutting edge over others in business and helps them face challenges more effectively.
1. Focus
Have a clear idea of who you need to have in your list of networks. Start by categorizing contacts such as current clients, potential customers, influential connectors, and powerful colleagues. You may even find people with whom you haven’t spoken in months, but would love to reconnect. If an association with a friend or colleague makes you a better person, make sure you nurture that relationship.
2. Use Tools Wisely
Think about the different tools such as emails, phone calls, get-togethers, dates, and handwritten notes and how best you can use them to build your professional network. A professional network can be nurtured by being in the circle of people you are trying to cultivate. The key to remaining at the top of their mind is how well you demonstrate the care factor. Articles, books, news, information or an event attended may prompt you to think about a particular person in your network. When you share this information, it becomes a natural way to show you care.
3. Use Social Media Strategically
In the tech era, social media is a great way to build your connections. But, over-dependence on social media to keep up professional networks can be precarious. Sometimes social media networks may appear strong, when in reality it exists only on the surface. Utilize social media to build relationships by reposting a contact’s content through your LinkedIn account or contributing to the discussion on Twitter. In other instances a chat over the phone would be still better, especially to convey appreciation for any recent achievements.
4. Be Helpful
You may have read a book or watched an informative video that had content relevant to someone in your network. Take the time to share it with the person and do it with a pure heart. Being genuine, sincere, and earnest will naturally create a sense of respect for you. This magic happens in professional networking as well.
5. Share Information about Yourself
When you receive appreciation, award or recognition, share it with your networks just like another piece of information about you. While it’s important to be proud of your achievements, you don’t want to sound like you’re bragging, so keep that in mind.
6. Network Audit
Auditing your professional network is a fantastic way to ensure your connections stay relevant. Over time, you will bring people in and out of your network. Your old network will meet new individuals, and this can open connections between them. Consistently auditing your network and staying connected effortlessly will help you nurture relationships and build your network with far-reaching results.
