Networking Tips From The Little Black Book

The Little Black Book in Charleston, SC provided some networking tips to the attendees at Monday night’s Center For Women Speed Networking event.  (The event was a blast, by the way.)  We wanted to pass them along since they are completely in alignment with the strategies we share with our clients!  For more info on Little Black Book, go to www.everybusywoman.com.

For more info on The Center For Women, check out www.c4women.org.

1) Know Your Network Style.  Whether better one on one or in large groups, you can find a networking opportunity that works for you!

2) How Can I Help You? When you enter a situation with the goal of fulfilling another’s need, you create a connection and establish a relationship that will stand the test of time.

3) Don’t Start from Scratch.  Make a list of your existing network. Connect people on your list to each other, and they’re likely to return the favor.  Also, look for third party connections to the people you need to meet.

4) Have a Goal. Make a list of your career objectives and join professional groups, volunteer for committees, speak at conferences, etc. that directly relate to the goals you’ve set for yourself.

5) It’s About Relationships. When you get to know someone, you create a relationship, so going into a conversation with only “business on the brain” is a mistake. It doesn’t matter if you’re buying a car or need a new logo, you are going to call on someone that you have a relationship with.

6) Organize Your Contacts.  When you come away from a networking opportunity, take the time to establish that contact in your management system of choice. Write down tips to help you remember this person and how you met. Set reminders for yourself to check in with them.