The 10% Guide to Personal Networking

Networking is engineered, not accidental. If you want to build wealth in your professional connections, it takes deliberate effort. This guide will walk you through actionable tactics, behaviors to adopt, and opportunities to seize to cultivate your personal networking wealth.

Tactics

The first step in building a strong network is to have clear tactics. Here are several actionable strategies to help you make meaningful connections.

1. Attend Industry Events

Participating in industry events is a cornerstone of networking. Look for conferences, trade shows, and local meetups relevant to your field. For instance, if you’re in digital marketing, attend events like Content Marketing World or Social Media Marketing World. These gatherings provide opportunities to meet industry leaders and peers.

2. Leverage Online Platforms

In today’s digital age, online networking is just as crucial as face-to-face interactions. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your industry. Regularly share insights and engage with others’ posts. A simple comment on a thought-provoking article can lead to a conversation and, potentially, a valuable connection.

3. Host Your Own Events

If you want to stand out, consider hosting your own networking event. This could be as simple as a coffee meet-up or a larger seminar. For example, a young professional in tech organized a series of “Lunch and Learn” sessions at her office, inviting speakers from different tech firms. This not only showcased her organizational skills but also attracted a diverse group of attendees.

Behavior

Networking isn’t just about where you go; it’s also about how you behave. Here are some behavioral tips to enhance your networking efforts.

1. Be Genuine

People can sense insincerity. Approach networking with the intent to build real relationships, not just to collect contacts. A genuine compliment or a thoughtful question can go a long way. For instance, after meeting someone at a conference, express your appreciation for their insights on a particular topic – this shows you value their expertise.

2. Follow Up

Following up is essential. After meeting someone, send a brief email or LinkedIn message. Reference your conversation to remind them who you are. For example, “Hi [Name], it was great discussing [Topic] at [Event]. I’d love to continue our conversation about [Specific Point].” This reinforces the connection and opens the door for future dialogue.

3. Maintain Consistent Engagement

Networking is not a one-time effort. Regular engagement is key. Share articles, comment on posts, or send updates about your professional journey. If someone you met mentioned they were looking for a new job, check in a few months later to see how their search is going. This shows you care and helps keep the relationship alive.

Opportunities

Identifying and seizing networking opportunities can set you apart. Here are some avenues to explore.

1. Volunteer for Projects

Get involved in projects that align with your career goals. This could be volunteering for a committee in a professional organization or leading a team at work. For example, a marketing analyst volunteered to help organize a charity event for a local nonprofit. This not only expanded her network but also showcased her skills to potential employers.

2. Use Alumni Networks

Your school’s alumni network can be a goldmine. Many universities have formal networking events, mentorship programs, and online directories. Reach out to fellow alumni in your area or field. A former classmate might be in a position to offer insights or even job opportunities.

3. Explore Cross-Industry Connections

Don’t limit yourself to your immediate industry. Explore connections in related fields. For instance, if you’re in marketing, consider connecting with professionals in sales or product development. They can offer different perspectives and even collaborative opportunities. Attend events that bring together diverse industries, like community business expos.

Real Examples of Networking Wealth

To illustrate these principles, let’s look at a couple of real-world examples.

Example 1: The Power of a Personal Brand

A young graphic designer named Sarah invested time in building her personal brand online. She regularly shared her work on platforms like Behance and Instagram, engaging with other designers. When she attended a local design conference, she was already familiar to many attendees thanks to her online presence. This led to numerous meaningful conversations and eventually several freelance projects.

Example 2: Networking Through Mentorship

James, a recent graduate, reached out to a senior executive in his field for informational interviews. After several conversations, the executive offered to mentor him. This relationship not only provided James with invaluable advice but also opened doors in his job search. Through his mentor, he gained introductions to key players in the industry, leading to his first job out of college.

Conclusion

Building a strong personal network is crucial for career growth and success. By employing strategic tactics, adopting the right behaviors, and seizing opportunities, you can create networking wealth that will benefit you throughout your professional journey. Remember, networking is a skill that can be developed over time. Be intentional, be genuine, and watch your connections flourish.