Here
are a few things you can do over the summer to grow your
network:
Create your own Networking Criteria
Put together
a list of the type of people and events you are interested in.
Then prioritize why you want to make a connection. Is it to
get to know colleagues, grow your practice, explore ways to
become a "thought leader" in your industry? The criteria can
include who is the speaker or something logistical such as
where to park. Choose what's important to you.
Inventory your Network
Write out a list of all
the people you know and how they can help each other. Make
introductions. Especially when you don't need anything from
either person.
Arrive Early at a Party
When someone has a party
their biggest fear is no one will show up. Arrive on time and
offer to help. You become an unofficial host and will be
forever endeared to the party giver.
Think carefully before you say, "Can I buy you
lunch?
This can be a good idea or a really bad
one. Essentially what you are saying is this person's time can
be bought for roughly $20 depending on where you eat. You
might be better received if you ask for 15 minutes at their
office. Inquire what's best for them. [And be sure you know
what you want from them!]
REMINDER: If they accept your invitation for lunch, be sure
to at least offer to pay for the entire meal. You don't want
people going around thinking you are after a free meal.
How to Avoid "Over-Networking"
Invest 15 minutes
of time before you run off to a networking event or pick up
the phone. Decide if the event or person matches your
networking criteria. Be good to yourself and don't
"over-network."
Here
are a few things you can do over the summer to grow your
network:
