The following article, which I wrote, appeared in the June addition of Soho Magazine. It is also featured at Sohobiztube.com, which is a social networking for businesses, not individuals.
Always Offer A Helping Hand
One of the most important aspects of networking is helping others. Without helping other people, it will be difficult to build sustaining and long-term relationships.
Make it a point to continuously offer to help others when you meet them for the first time. You should also reach out to existing people within your own network and offer your assistance.
Help Others Connect
Over time, your network will continue to grow. This will provide you with a variety of people you can call upon. As you get to know people within your network, you will develop a clear understanding of their background and the types of people who would be beneficial for them to meet.
When you meet people for the first time, pay attention to their backgrounds and needs. If you offer to make a connection, then you are showing good will and are on your way to building your relationships. Another great aspect about connecting people is that you are continuously putting yourself in front of your network.
People will also appreciate the time and care that went into making the connection for them. When it’s time for you to ask for a connection, others will then be glad to help you out. Once your network grows, people should even start to make connections without asking for an introduction from you.
Help - When You Can - With Job Searches
Past-built relationships can become an important asset when you are looking for a new job. The time you put into networking will ensure that you will have a good network of people to call upon. Likewise, you might be called upon when other people do job searches.
When people contact you during their job search, find out who they want to meet and then offer to connect them to various people within your network. Don’t spend too much time trying to help people find a new job until you get to know them.
The last thing you want to do is make a bad connection within your network. It will help protect your reputation and trustworthiness within the network if you make sure you feel comfortable with a person before making a referral. By letting others know about job opportunities, this demonstrates your thoughtfulness.
Help By Being A Teammate
Another great technique for building relationships is to help others with their projects.
As you get to know people, you will learn about their professional and personal lives. During your discussions, you should get a good sense of how you can help people with their projects. Don’t offer to help until you feel that your expertise and resources can truly be helpful.
Effective ways to help others may include performing market research, analyzing competitors, researching Web sites and providing event information. You need to take each project very seriously because your perceived character and continued relationship are riding on your good will. Helping people will take your relationships to another level.
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