Nurturing Your Network
By: Jason Costa
Networking is all about building relationships, and it’s not just about meeting new people. It’s also about nurturing those relationships over time to create long-term, mutually beneficial connections.
Here are some strategies for building and nurturing your networking relationships:
Follow up promptly and frequently:
When you meet someone new, make sure to follow up promptly to keep the conversation going. Send a quick email or message to thank them for meeting with you and express your interest in staying in touch. Follow up again periodically to check in and keep the relationship alive.
Provide value:
Networking is not just about what you can get, it’s also about what you can give. Look for ways to provide value to your contacts, whether it’s by sharing relevant information or making introductions to others in your network.
Be genuine:
People can tell when you’re not being authentic, so be genuine in your interactions. Listen actively and show a genuine interest in others. People are more likely to want to stay in touch with you if they feel that you care about them.
Stay organized:
Keep track of your networking contacts and interactions in a CRM or other system. This will help you remember important details about each person and make it easier to follow up and stay in touch.
Meet in person:
While it’s important to stay connected online, nothing beats meeting in person. Look for opportunities to meet up with your networking contacts, whether it’s for coffee, lunch, or attending an event together.
By following these strategies, you can build and nurture long-term, mutually beneficial relationships that can help you grow both personally and professionally.
