I have been talking and writing about my recent relocation to the Tampa Bay/Dunedin Florida area to be closer to my family.
I seem to be on the move more over the past 6 years but that is just where my life cycle is now. The good news is I knew people and was familiar with the market, which was important to me. Originally my idea was to pick some networking groups and activities and go to them to get connected.
Instead, I made a list of people I already knew in the area, who I have met in person or online and I reached out to them before my move to let them know I was relocating. I specifically asked them to introduce me to other like minded and spirited professionals and to suggest what events, groups or organizations I might enjoy going to.
So far it’s working really well. I’ve already met many awesome people, have several new business opportunities and have been asked to come to and speak at several events. When you network with the right people, they will lead you to the right events, collaborative activities and events.
When you think about all the people you already know from your work and personal life and how much potential is already there, it just makes sense to tap relationships you already have.
I call it ‘sphere-ing’. Identify all the people who have you in common that may not know each other, and introduce them to the right people you know and ask them to introduce you to the right people they know. Make sense?
Networking with people you already have a connection or relationship with really cuts down the time in testing and trying to figure out where the best people are for you and your services.
Here are 5 tips for networking with the right people, who will lead you to the right events.
- Make a list of 10 people who you know, that may not know each other, and make some intros and connections for them and ask them and do the same for you. Watch how this can work when you are communal and mutual.
- Use Google, Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter features that help you find new groups, communities and people talking about your industry, reposting your content, talking about your business or blog articles. Join a few, start commenting and getting into people’s conversations.
- Pick up the phone to talk and advance the conversation, and meet in person if you can to solidify the chemistry.
- Use your blog, podcast or video to feature people and their content and stories of success and triumph.
- Give, share and help first then ask for what you need later.
Networking is more important than ever for sharing and refining your personal branding statement. Know yourself and what you need so that you network more purposefully. Be specific, more personal, qualify and be consistent.
What are some of the ways you tap into your networks to make new connections both online and in person?
Author:
Deborah Shane is Top 100 Small Business Champion 2012, Career Author, branding/media strategist, writer and speaker. She hosts her Toolbox Blog and a popular weekly Business Radio Show that has over 108K downloads! She is a regular contributor to SmallBizTrends.com, Monster, Blogher, PersonalBrandingBlog.com, Forbes.com. Her book Career Transition-make the shift is available on Amazon.com and all major book sellers. Deborah delivers smart ideas and solutions, which make her a popular go-to resource for CNN, CBS, Fox and Forbes.
