Making Linkedin Network For You

I had a discussion with a friend the other day about Linkedin. She asked me if Linkedin was part of my networking strategy. This is how I used Linkedin.

• For keeping track of those people that I want in my network but maybe only have a need to touch base with them periodically. The weekly updates that I receive keeps me up to speed on those that maybe change companies or some particular info in their profile.
• Connecting to new people. I only connect with those that I know personally, but I do take the opportunity to meet new people through my connections. Say if Sally (who I am linked to) is connected to someone that I would like to meet, I ask them to introduce me.
• I post events that I am organizing. It has been a great way to "get the word out".
• It allows me to share books that I have read or am reading and I don't have to call 100+ connections to share the info.
  

Turning An Initial Conversation Into An Appointment

I attend several networking events throughout the week. I was at an expo this week and met someone that was a potential client. I called them the next day as a follow up and instead of asking for an appointment, I offered them information about an organization that I thought they may be interested in checking out for potential new business. They had heard of the organization and being that I was already involved with the group, I was able to provide them with some insight into the group. As the conversation progressed, I was able to share information about what I do....and then they asked ME for an appointment to discuss further the services that Nextrio offers. Now I know that this does not happen every time and most situations are never that easy, but I really believe in the idea of giving first to people you meet. Being a resource is a great way to meet people and to start building a relationship with.

Rethink and Refocus

The New Year is a time that we tend to set new goals and take on new endeavours. It is also a great time to take a look those things that we have been doing in the past and rethinking them to measure the success of those efforts. A few years ago I actually left a leads group because the group had turned into a business to consumer group rather than a business to business group (which is my target market). I really liked the people, but it was in my best interest to leave the group. Sometimes we just keep attending certain events or belong to certain organizations that provides no value to us nor to our business. I challenge everyone to rethink where we spend our networking time to make sure that it is a good use of our time. Also, take a moment to see what else may be out there since the last time we checked. It may just surprise you.

Taking Your Relationships To The Next Level

I am continually reminded of how important strong relationships are. It is not just enough to know someone but to really know how you can work together. Whatever you call those people that have the same target market as you...whether power partners or power group, it is invaluable to take the time to really strategize on how you can work together for more business for both of you. So many businesses naturally work well together. For me being in the technology industry, I ask prospective clients the same questions that an internet provider may ask which is a perfect segway into finding out answers that relates to both of us and to also make those introductions when appropriate. But I also think outside of the box to what situations do businesses rethink their technology. A common situation is when a company is moving, expanding or even downsizing which can be an ideal situation for me. So perfect partners are a commercial real estate person, moving company, office furniture consultant or even an employment agency. These partners and I rely on each other to make introductions AND this dynamic group of contacts keeps each other informed on happenings in the market. By taking the time to deepen your relationships you will see rewards in great long term relationships but also with more business.

Having the Right Tools When Networking

Regardless of your sport or hobby, it is crucial to have the right equipment for the task. The same is true with networking. It is very important to have tools that will help you succeed and be productive.

Here are just a couple of things that I feel are important to have when networking.

Database. Whether you keep track of your leads with a simple or a sophisticated system, the main point is that you keep track of leads and people that you meet.

Business cards. After an event, I often have a slew of cards. After the cards are entered into my system, I date the back of the bundle and put the event name and the back of each card. These are then banded together and stored

Backup. It is quite difficult to network if you lose all your data. There are many affordable was to accomplish this, but the main thing is to get a plan in place.

With a few tools to match your networking needs, you will find you have time to enjoy one-on-one conversations and events.

Harmonious Relationships

All enduring success is founded upon harmonious human relationships.

Most of us are incapable of "going it alone." Whether it is in our careers, our personal relationships, or in life, we all need others if we are to achieve the level of success we desire. Besides, what’s the point of having it all if we have no one we care about to share it? You may choose to work with others, you may ignore them, or you may choose to work against them, but the greatest successes in life come to those who work harmoniously with others. When your personal goals coincide with those of another, not only does the power of your combined labors benefit you, but such cooperation also creates a synergistic effect that allows you to achieve far more than the simple sum of your individual efforts. Know that friendship freely given and gratefully received is one of life’s greatest gifts.

Networking Equals Giving

Networking is NOT about meeting someone and selling them something, it is all about giving.

Remember when you were a kid and you were told is it better to give than to receive? Well the same is true with networking.

We have all been at a networking event and met someone who only wants to talk about themselves. Their communication is truly one way....Me, me, me. They corner you and will tell you all about themselves and their business and never once asking about you or what you do. And when you finally get away from them, they are the first ones to follow-up with a phone call or email. Eek! These people are "takers" and have forgotten that networking is a two-way street. They missed the chapter that tells them how networking is the selfless art of facilitating introductions to help others. Yes, networking is all about giving, and not always about receiving. However, there is a lot to be gained in the process of networking. By helping others connect, you contribute to a world of common circles that can go in many new connections. In addition, you might just be surprised how your generosity turns into successful leads for yourself. Think of this process as "networking karma." For those who continue to wear "networking blinders," only thinking of how others can help them, they are missing many, many opportunities beyond their immediate sphere of influence. So, at your next networking event, keep in mind what you learned long ago about giving and receiving as you meet others, and watch how your connections grow.