Between seeking and building connections, networking can be a stressful game. Here are seven ways to make it easier:
1. Know Your Audience
Whether they’re a potential employer, sponsor, or romantic interest, this step is crucial. Understand the macro, then work your way down to the micro. In other words, if you have a basic understanding of their environment and social and cultural influences, you’ll be able to cater your approach.
2. Do Your Research
Find a commonality. That is, one that goes beyond a preliminary LinkedIn or Wikipedia search. This requires tact and the use of search engine optimization. Use your basic understanding of the person or industry to direct your efforts.
3. Listen, then Mirror a Common Ground
Once you have a basic understanding of where people come from and what they do, you can usually guess who they are. You’ve done your research, you know your audience, and now it’s time to invite their interest. Busy people will be more likely to talk to you, if you show that the interaction can be mutually beneficial.
4. Be Genuine
Even the smallest insights may prove to be your biggest connection. If they’re a huge sports fan but you know nothing about sports, then find something else. Maybe you know something about one of the team’s newest sponsors. Or maybe you’re well-versed on their marketing strategy. Whatever you find, make it work for you. Networking is all about building trust and interest. Maintaining your network is about creating genuine bonds.
5. Over-communicate
Be persistent, make yourself known. Follow up. Often. Spread your efforts. Expert opinions vary, but most favor email as the first contact method. However, LinkedIn is also a suitable (professional) alternative. Subsequently, social media -even in all its ubiquity- can be a great supplement.
6. Carry Your Weight
The real work begins after you receive a response. Maintaining their interest is simple: serve their goals to help you also serve your own. Think of your value proposition (what you have to offer), and stick with it. You will see the impact of doing so later.
7. Thank Them
It’s likely that the person who helped you will also be interested in the outcome. In this case, the conversation can go one of two ways: either they were able to help, or they weren’t. Either way, they deserve an update and your thanks for going out of their way.
My Final Thoughts…
As with all things business, take this advice with a grain of salt. You are your own best advocate. And as such, you know what works and what doesn’t. Take a deep breath, because you have everything you need to succeed!
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