Even if you’re a friendly individual who has good relationships with people, you might still be an introvert who has trouble networking.  In today’s business world, communicating and making contacts is everything, and just about everybody has to do it.  Below are five tips on how to get connected to the right people:

Networking Tip #1: Make a List of Everybody You Know

Everyone you know who is relevant to your professional life, that is.  Keep an alphabetical record of their names, addresses, phone numbers, and emails.  Every few weeks, randomly select one of these names and make contact with that individual over the phone or over lunch.  You’ll be surprised at how these informal meetings will open the door to new possibilities.

Networking Tip #2: Don’t wait

Too often, people wait until they are looking for a new job to start networking.  Don’t fall into this trap – you should be networking on a daily basis, creating contacts and opportunities for yourself while you’re still employed.

Networking Tip #3:  Have Long-Term Relationships with your Contacts

Don’t use your contacts and then leave them when you’ve got everything you need.  Send thank-you notes and follow up with your contacts if they’ve recommended your name to someone or given you advice.  Keep your contacts in the loop if they’ve helped you out, because they’ll be more likely to provide assistance in the future.

Networking Tip #4: Be a Resource for Others

Increase your visibility by becoming known as someone who is a powerful resource.  This way, people will come to you for suggestions, ideas, names of other people, etc.  In turn, they will remember your name and mention it to others.

Networking Tip #5: Set Goals

Many people fear networking because it often involves approaching a stranger and forming a face-to-face professional relationship.  For a lucky few, this is a natural talent.  For most, however, creating these new relationships is a skill that takes a lot of practice.  Set networking goals for yourself: You might try committing yourself to meeting 3 new people and reconnecting with 3 people at the next function you attend.  Instead of being a wallflower, take a risk and spend some energy getting to know someone new.

“You have to give before you get. Many people think networking consists of collecting contacts and then only calling them when you need a favor. No, it doesn’t work that way. For networking to work and be fair, you must develop you contacts over time and find ways to help these contacts well before you need their help.” – Ed Smith

Tags: business contacts, database, network, professional relationships, strategy

Filed under Business Advice by Michael Walsh.