If you are thinking that growing a network is like growing lima beans in a cup, as schoolchildren do, then this is not the post for you. This is not a two-week exercise.
You want your network to be like an oak, not a lima bean, so we are talking oak time, not bean time.
While there is not a quick fix for network building, it is a process you can begin right now.
The fundamental most people make when they build a network is they start building without a plan. They haphazardly connect one person to another or, worse, yet, they build their network by responding to invitations.
This will not get you what you want.
Start with a plan. What would you like your network to look like? What types of workers, contacts pr companies are you going after? A good social network should not be a copy of your tangible network. Use the social network to grow in the ways you want to.
Look for people who are connectors and then ask yourself how they got that way before deciding to reach out. Someone who spends a lot of time forming superficial connections cannot help you the way a truly connected person can. Don’t load up your social network with superficiality.
Identify a handful of very valuable people in your network and get them on your calendar. These will probably be people who know you so well that they can give you references or specific and personal career advice. You want to be in touch with them about every six months, at least. This is how you cultivate the network you have grown.
Finally, take advantage of opportunities to strengthen the ties yo have with your contacts. When possible — say, you’re visiting another city or have some spare moments and a reason to talk — raise direct message or email relationship to texting or phone contacts and turn some of those into face-to-face meetings.
You will not be compiling a list, you will be curating a structure that covers the area you desire and that has some people you value for their connections to others or their connection to you.
Career questions? E-mail Joe for an answer.
Coming Tuesday:
