How To Work Your Network?

Posted on by careerquilting

Start By Mapping Your Network

People are a very important component of someone’s career.  It’s the thread on our career quilt, without it the quilt would not exist.

“The successful networkers I know, the ones receiving tons of referrals and feeling truly happy about themselves, continually put the other person’s needs ahead of their own.” — Bob Burg

Yes, networking is not about you, it’s about the people you meet at an event, workshop, work, the grocery store and so on. It is also about the people you know and deal with on a more regular basis and who we often forget to include in our plans.

Let's Break It down

Here are a few tips on how to work a network:

  1. Write down your goal
  2. Jot down all the people you know in your network who can help you achieve this goal. Add their names and the type of relationship you have with them
  3. Map it out – Use a diagram, it helps
  4. Analyze your network map. Can you identify gaps in your network?  Who are the people you should connect with to help you achieve your goal? Where do these people meet, hangout, etc? Don’t forget online tools like LinkedIn
  5. Write up your “pitch” – How will you talk about your goal when asked the question “why are you attending this event”
  6. Practice it – In front of a mirror, with a friend, by yourself.  Believe me, it works
  7. Connect – Attend the event or connect online
  8. Follow-up – If you are attending an event, collect business cards.  On the card write the follow-up action.  Shortly after the event, follow-up (include action item)
  9. Keep in touch – Set a reminder in your calendar to connect with the person periodically

In networking, it’s very important to have an open mind and to not act needy.  People are not attracted to needy people.  Remember you are not focused on your goals, you are helping people achieve their goals.  Think about it…..if everyone’s goal is to help the person they meet, than logically, everyone will get what they wish and achieve the outcome they set out to accomplish.

Thanks for visiting!  Don’t forget to like, share and follow Career Quilting.

I would love to see your networking map and to hear from you. So, comment and let’s connect.

 

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