30 Days to Better Networking - Day 3

Ever since kindergarten, the buddy system has kept us on track.  Today, try to think of just one person who really understands what you do, your goals (long and short term), and who can communicate those goals to people who they know or meet who can help you reach those goals.

Once you have identified that person, call them and let them know that you are expanding your network.  Ask them if they are looking to expand their network too, and if they are, offer to help them.  Tell them that you would like to get a good understanding of their professional goals and needs, the types of positions they are looking for, the types of customers or clients they are targeting, etc.  After they tell you, repeat it back to them and ask if your understanding is correct. Then give them a good understanding of what you do and your goals.  Make sure that they can repeat it back to you.  When you are networking, always keep your buddy in mind.  If you meet someone that can help your buddy, or that your buddy can help, make the introduction.

Bonus:  When you make an introduction, try not to do it by email, unless that is the only means you have to contact that person.  If you have an email address, request a phone number so that you can either make the introduction by phone or schedule an in person meeting of all parties - including you.

Author Profile: Eva Wilson  - Website

I am the product of a Trinidadian mother and a Tobagonian father. Needless to say, just about everything when I was growing up could be solved with, "one lash!" These days, it is much more complicated (although, there is still a whole list of problems that can be solved with "one lash"...