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Successful Networking

Making the connections with the right people has often been considered a vital key to success. The trick is figuring out how to do that. Here are a few tips by Vickie Milazzo, founder and CEO of a multi-million dollar company and author of “Wicked Success is Inside Every Woman,” on how to make networking work for you.

Be selective. There’s nothing wrong with going out and meeting new people. But the difference between adding new friends to your social circle and connecting with the people who can help your career is by choosing the right people to communicate with. Successful people research what they need, locate its source and then connect.

Find the best group. Joining a networking group is great, unless that organization has nothing to do with your career. Create a personalized network of colleagues, clients, consultants and acquaintances whom you can depend on to give you what you need.

Aim high. If you find yourself spending time with the same group of people over and over, you can expect your career to stay at a standstill. Make the effort to connect with people who hold higher positions than you and the people in your comfort zone.

Know when to move on. If you’re spending all of your time with one individual or group, and you realize your career is not getting anything out of it, then it’s time to start looking for new people. While friendships are important, time is valuable. Spend it with those who can help you improve your career.

Follow up. Meeting someone doesn’t imply that a business relationship will follow. Reach out to your new contact, regardless of whether you need something from him/her. Thank the person for advice they gave you, or pass along contact information he/she might find beneficial. Networking is a two-way street. You should give as much as you get.

Maintain relationships offline. Social media is a great tool, but it shouldn’t be the only way you’re communicating with someone. Find ways to interact with your connections offline: write letters, call them or meet them for lunch. Create a system for staying in touch in a personal manner.
 

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