by Naike Moshi
Are you focusing on growing your network?
Networking can be an effective tool to build your professional career or provide you with amazing opportunities. They say " Your network is your net worth.” The stronger your network, the more valuable you are to your business, and other individuals. Over time, your network will enable you to orchestrate major business deals, refer business to associates, help a friend land her next job, or even introduce future couples.
Here are 7 networking tips to keep in mind as you master your networking skills:
Focus on bringing value to your network
Always give more than you take. Always ask yourself: What are you bringing to the table? Networking should provide value to both parties at some point.
Be intentional about relationship building
Try to catch up with contacts you have made in the past. It does not matter whether years or months have passed, always try to keep your relationships warm. Use the power of follow-up after you have met someone whether virtually or face to face. One of the biggest mistakes I was making when it comes to networking was not following up. Sometimes you will find me with all the business cards in my handbag and when I needed my contacts' help, That's when I try to reach out. I am sure many of you can relate to this one. Don't you reach out or call someone when you are in need? That was a huge mistake. It's important to be intentional about relationship building. Always follow up after a meeting and connect with people that you have met on LinkedIn. It's crucial to have a system or process in place to make it easier but also to multiply your impact and reach.
Invest time and money in building your network
The return on investment is always huge and worth it as you build your social capital. Online meetings and events have made it so easy and have provided access for anyone to network anywhere in the world.
Focus on quality rather than quantity.
When it comes to networking, it's better to have one connection rather than 1000 forgotten acquaintances. An hour with one good contact makes it worthwhile. I remember back in my early career, I used to collect every business card during an event. That has changed now as I focus on a few people that I will build a strong relationship with. It’s not necessarily about the quantity of the connections but rather the quality of those relationships.
Share your story and value proposition.
When it comes to networking, ask questions to learn more about the people you meet. The only way to get to know someone is to ask them questions and always listen to their answers. Always ask, "How I can help you? What do you bring to the table? Introduce yourself and what is it that you do.
Leverage on Social media
Social Media can be an effective tool for networking. Sites like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram can open many opportunities for you. Ensure your online profile is up to date. Keep posting and engaging as you build relationships online then move to face to face.
Networking virtually can open your audience/network globally.
Network with people outside your industry
One of the biggest networking mistakes, I was making in my early career was to connect with people in my industry or my immediate circle. This was not one of the smartest networking strategies. I found myself with limited knowledge, insights (different perspectives), and business leads. I was in a closed box. This was so boring! But since then, I made it my mission to network with people outside my industry. You have to be more intentional about connecting with people outside your circle and getting outside your comfort zone. It’s important to schedule a time to research events happening in different industries that are interesting to you.
Networking can be frightening sometimes. However, unless you go out or put yourself out there and meet people face to face or virtually, nobody will know you exist. Remember this advice and implement the tips outlined here, and you’re sure to transform yourself into a master networker.
Naike Moshi is the Country director of CVPeople Tanzania and founder & CEO of Women in Management Africa (WIMA). She is an MBA graduate and holds a dual degree in Human Resource and Business Management from Tennessee Wesleyan University in USA. She started her professional career in a US Tax Consulting firm and has enjoyed challenging, diverse assignments in the management consultancy industry. Contact Naike via Naike Moshi | LinkedIn
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