How to Build a Strong Network (Infographic)

Networking is an integral part of any business endeavor.  Building a strong network means making connections with a group of people that can provide you with advice, opportunities, social capital, and most importantly, business for both you and your contact.  Unfortunately, many people don’t network effectively or have reservations approaching peers; in fact, a ComRes poll has shown that 62% of British adults have never attended a networking event, and 51% of those that have report feeling uncomfortable while networking.

Although understandable, there’s no reason why you should be nervous or tense at a networking event.  Remember, networking should ideally be a mutually beneficial activity, a “you scratch my back I’ll scratch yours” relationship.  With that said, let’s take a look at some principles to keep in mind while networking.

Have a goal in mind

Ask yourself why you’re reaching out and trying to create new business contacts.  Perhaps you’re trying to build a new client base, or exploring an industry you aren’t familiar with.  You could be new to an area and seeking employment or partnership opportunities.  It might be as simple as looking for advice from experienced peers for your business endeavor.  The key is to enter into a networking event with a clear goal of what you want.  That way, you don’t find yourself lacking purpose and therefore drive to connect with others.

Build a Target List of Contacts

It isn’t feasible to network with everyone in your industry, so you have to be discriminating in which relationships you invest time.  Using your goal as a guide, create a list of people you feel it would be valuable to reach out to.  A valuable contact is someone who is interested in helping others solve a problem, and who you can provide help as well.  Remember, the goal is not to have the largest stack of business cards possible at the end of the night.  It is much more important to have a number of smart, helpful people who you can engage in a mutually beneficial partnership with.

Build Candid, Reciprocal Relationships

Networking is supposed to build give and take relationships so both sides feel like they are gaining from the encounter.  This requires that you be a good listener, and a good sharer.  First of all, ask your contact about the basics to get the conversation started: What does your company do? What is your customer base?  What sets you apart from the competition?  Don’t hesitate to discuss aspects of and issues with your business as your candor is generally rewarded.  Try not to keep it all business and connect with the other person in a more personal way: discuss your kids, hobbies, or your terrible jump shot.  This makes you memorable and more than just a number in a contact book.

Maintain Your Relationships

The most important part of networking is to maintain those relationships you’ve spent so much time developing.  After connecting with someone, send them a thank-you note, set up a meeting, forward them interesting information, or bring them new business.  If you have high-quality contacts they will respond in kind, and this back and forth forms the fundament of a strong, profitable relationship.  This is the part of networking most people don’t pay attention to.  For the same reason you have to regularly tend to your garden, you must tend to your business contacts to keep them healthy.  Don’t spam them though!  Be useful, not unhelpful.  It’s important to not burn any bridges, as you never know when somebody will be able to help you, or you to help them.  Remember the golden rule, “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”