Your network should consist of quality relationships, which takes time to develop. Don’t get caught up on seeing how many people you can add to your newsletter list or LinkedIn contacts. It is not about numbers but rather quality.
Face time is a very important part of this process. Get to know people one-on-one. You don’t need a large network to be successful. Spend some of your time connecting with super connectors – those people who have large networks that you can eventually tap into.
Make it a point to meet new people every week either at networking events or through referrals. You don’t have to integrate every person who you meet into your network. Just focus on the people who you find a connection with and enjoy.
Once you connect with certain people, get to know them by staying in front of them by helping however you can (i.e. making introductions, sending valuable information) and meeting with them for coffee or lunch.
Over time, you will have built up a quality and sizable network of people who trust you. Just be patient and don’t try to connect with everyone who you meet.
Also, keep in mind that technology such as social networking sites should not be the only way you interact with people. Rather, leverage technology to maintain relationships. Of course, you can meet many new people this way too but try to also connect outside of these platforms.
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