6 Ways to Network to Success

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All great networkers have one thing in common: They understand the importance of networking in career success. Some people are born with the skills to cultivate and take advantage of lasting professional connections. If you're in this group, don't bother reading this article. If, on the other hand, you're like most of the rest of us and have to learn the art of networking, read on.

6 Networking Tips
Let me share six tips that can help you network more effectively:

1. Become Aware of Networking Potential

Start thinking about the people you come across at meetings, trade shows and other professional encounters as potential resources. Also remember that you can turn a person into a contact without a face-to-face meeting. Look at the newspaper with a "networking" eye, and listen to the news with a networking ear. When someone interests you, send the person a complimentary note.

2. Be Results-Oriented & Form a Plan

Make networking a part of your daily routine. For example, if you're off to an association meeting, set a goal to make and follow up with at least two new contacts. Following up is the most crucial part of the networking process. It separates the pros from the amateurs. If you think it's time-consuming to develop relationships with new people, you're right. But the more of it you do, the better off you'll be. Keep in mind that you can never tell which “lead" will turn out to be productive. So it pays to invest the time and effort to make as wide a network as possible.

3. Find an Original Approach

Find a style of networking that suits you. For example, I write and mail the customers, prospects and others in my network an easy-to read newsletter. On each newsletter I attach a post-it tag with a short personal note.

4. Be a Joiner & Get Involved

Sitting on the sidelines doesn't get you noticed. You need to lead an active life. Think about the business organizations you can join. And don't simply sign up. Get involved. For example, I recently joined a business club where I entertain clients and enhance my own network. I immediately wrote a letter to the club president asking him how I could get involved with the committees. He called me back and the first thing he said was, "I like your direct approach." My networking efforts did not stop with him. I also became friendly with the club's support people, remembering them with a note of appreciation.

5. Remember that Perception Is Reality

Make a good first impression and never stop impressing others. Treat new contacts with special care and importance. Reintroduce yourself to individuals that are still getting to know you. Keep in mind that people remember what they see of and hear from you not only at the beginning but throughout the relationship.

6. Employ Measurable Tactics

Every good strategy uses specific action steps that can be monitored. For example, each week call three people you haven't spoken to in 90 days. Keep a log of contacts along with the type of follow-up you used. Decide which approaches are working best for you.

Conclusion
Last and most importantly, remember that networking is a two-way street. Professional relationships are most effective and lasting when both sides gain. So I implore you all to remember the golden rule of networking: Ask not what your contacts can do for you; ask what you can do for your contacts.

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