The other day I watched an interesting video of Dan Schawbel explaining some of the concepts of networking. He stressed the need to give before you receive and he’s absolutely right. Networking isn’t just about receiving, it’s about giving. But eventually, if you keep giving, you’ll receive. Here are some excellent ways to start off a relationship by giving.
Help
When first meeting someone don’t request their help. Instead offer your help to whoever it is that you’re trying to connect with. Help the person for the good of it, not in order to receive back. If you do it in such a way, people will always be more willing to give back to you. Some people are experts and do it by nature like, Shonika Proctor from Renegade CEO’s, King Sidharth from 64 Notes, Rob Granholm from IT Arsenal, Onibalusi Bamidele from YoungPrePro, Hesham Zebida from FamousBloggers, and Gloson from Gloson Blog.
Social Media
The beauty of social media is that it could connect you to almost anyone. Why not use that to your advantage? Sending a meaningful tweet, messaging someone on Facebook or recommending someone on LinkedIn could mean a lot and be the spark of a new relationship. Even more so, promoting them or their business is even more powerful.
Introduction Email
Writing introduction emails is a classic way to “give.” A good introduction email takes some effort and should involve some thought. Make sure you emphasize the quality of each person you are introducing and why these two people should connect. If you start recommending people before you know it your network will do the same for you.
Be Unique
Standing out of the crowd will easily get yourself noticed. Do something unique, for example send someone a small gift. Not something expensive, rather something that shows that you put thought into it and that you really want to make that connection.
What tips do you have for “giving” when networking?