Tuesday, October 20, 2009

The Basics of Professional Networking ~ "Come and Talk to Me" Jodeci



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One of the key things one needs to follow in any profession is networking. Networking assumes such an important role due to the kind of relationships that you can form as well as the kind of visibility that it ensures. However, be mindful of certain basics in networking that will keep you in good stead whether you happen to be building a network locally, nationally or internationally.

The key to this is coming across as well-informed and knowledgeable. This would also involve some effort from your side in the form of research. At any of the professioal conferences come prepared. It won't be a bad idea to be present in a seminar once in a while at your local B2B group. All these instances provide you the chance of showcasing your knowledge and skills so that you can prove to be a valuable asset.

Another very important part of networking is to identify relevant people. This does not mean that you only befriend people that can benefit you. It does mean that you seek acquaintance and professional relationships with people who are relevant in your field or who are relevant in your town.

The yardstick for measuring whether a person is relevant or not depends on the way things work in a certain profession and the common interests. Thus a person might choose to build his network with people hailing from a certain place in case he wants to build the network locally. In another case he might just choose to create contacts with people associated with your business area.

To find these relevant people, ask people who you know have good networks and be on the lookout for chance mentions in conversations. Habitually scan newspapers to find out who the "players" are, and become acquainted with specific reasons that such people are worth knowing.

The next step is to contact relevant persons individually. This is usually best done in writing. Send a brief letter about your company or your work, and ask for suggestions. Make sure you can express specifically what you liked about something you saw from this person, and let her or him know you would be interested in meeting at a specific conference or group meeting.

Never ever flatter, gush, or extol their greatness, or put yourself down or be cute. Your letter should be concise, yet communicative, and very professional, and written in a way that doesn't demand response. Instead, try to word in a manner that communicates you would appreciate an insight, or a meeting at some convenient time. And don't worry if a response is not forthcoming, usually, your contact is swamped with work. But you can courteously introduce yourself when you meet your contact at conference or meeting in the future.

Face to face meetings are always a good idea. Seek out relevant people at conferences and meetings, and make an effort to introduce yourself. If you sent a letter beforehand, this acts as a great icebreaker. A face to face meeting will help you build a network that remembers who you are. And make sure to follow up. Plug members of your network, just as you would like them to plug you.

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