Five short tips on networking

Five quick tips on networking - a horrible phrase to describe the important process of building important working relationships:

  • Be proactive, not reactive. Make a list of people you want to get to know better. Don’t leave it to chance.

  • Value quality over quantity. Aim for one good conversation per event. Don’t rush.

  • Help others. Do five-minute favours in ways that play to your interests and strengths.

  • Be human. Ask questions. Show vulnerability. Add personal elements to professional relationships.

  • Follow up. Half the battle is simply being top of mind.

Further reading:

Beat Generosity Burnout, Harvard Business Review

How to Build a World Class Network in Record Time, Tim Ferriss

How to Like People, Get Personal, and Repeatedly Follow Up, Derek Sivers

How to Trust People You Don’t Like, Adam Grant

Pollinate