Today is Thursday, so this post is on communication skills.
In this post, I’d like to focus on an important, but often overlooked communication skill: networking. Networking is helpful when you are looking for a job, but it is even more important when you are happy with your situation. All career and life stars build and nurture a strong network.
Here are some ideas for building your network:
- Start with the people you know. These people already like and trust you. Ask them to introduce you to people they think you will have a lot in common with. Return the favor.
- Be genuinely interested in other people. When networking, talk less and listen more. Get to know other people, by asking them about themselves. They’ll appreciate you for this, and return the favor by asking about you.
- Build relationships first. Ask for help second. Be on the lookout for ways to help people you meet. Go out of your way to pass on referrals and/or information to them. That way, you’ll have something in your emotional bank account with them when you need their help.
- Adopt an abundance mentality. This is similar to the previous idea. Be willing to help others with no expectations of anything in return. People will remember you for this. Your kindness will be repaid many times over.
- Follow through. If you say you’ll call someone, call him or her. If you say you’ll send someone some material, send it. Most importantly, thank people for their time and thoughts. A handwritten thank you note will set you apart from most people – who either don’t thank others, or do it via e mail or the phone.
- Join professional organizations. I am a member of ASTD (The American Society for Training and Development) and the National Speakers Association. These are the two groups where I find like minded people. Join the important trade group for your specialty.
- Prepare to make a good impression. Develop an “elevator speech” – a 20 to 30 second introduction that is a summary of who you are and what you do. Practice this elevator speech until you can say it fluently and effortlessly every time you meet someone new.
- Maintain and cultivate your network. Keep in touch with the people you meet. Send them articles they might find interesting. Call them or send them an e mail to say hello every few months.
Networking is an important skill. Career and life stars have large networks. They have people they can call to help them -- find the answer to questions they have, find a new job, find a good service provider etc.
If you use the eight tips I’ve presented above, you’ll become a great networker.
That’s it for today. Thanks for reading. Log on to my website www.BudBilanich.com for more common sense. Check out my other blog: www.CommonSenseGuy.com for common sense advice on leading people and running a small business.
I’ll see you around the web, and at Alex’s Lemonade Stand.
Bud
PS: Speaking of Alex’s Lemonade Stand – my fundraising page is still open. Please go to www.FirstGiving.com/TheCommonSenseGuy to read Alex’s inspiring story and to donate if you can.
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