Professional Networking Strategies

I'm a big believer in networking. In my opinion, it's one of the most fulfilling things there is. Beyond that, I've been extremely fortunate to have people who've taken me under their wings! Here's how I view the process: <ol><li><b>Do favors early and often. </b>I mainly do this by: <ul><li>Giving people valuable information and advice. This shows people that I understand what they need and am willing to take steps to fulfill this need. I often find this information through my online reading, experience, book reading, or through my network.
<li>Make introductions. This is one of the easiest things to do in the world. You connect two people who you think could derive value from each other. It's a win-win-win.</ul>At the level of giving away information and contacts, there is a ton of abundance. Very little time is needed to make a big impact. I'm very willing to help people at least once, given they make a good case and earn my trust. <li><b>Give more if they reciproocate and/or appreciate. </b>While it feels good to give, I much prefer giving to those who appreciate it and who are willing and able to help me now or in the future. For me to keep giving, they need to follow some basic etiquette: <ul><li>Follow up promptly with introductions that I broker and "cc:" me.
<li>Show appreciation/consideration and provide feedback on the helpfulneess of information and contacts. Email is a good way to do this. Sending something in the mail would probably make more of an impact, but isn't necessary.
<li>When meeting me, come early and prepared with questions.
<li>Research me. I've written a book and hundreds of journal entries. Spending a little time early on getting to know how I think will help us get more out of the relationship. If you want to go a step farther, you will purchase and read the book. If you have an online presence, I will do the same for you.
<li>Proactively think about how I can help you and you can help me. I will do the same. Even if you're at the beginning of your career you can always help people. Little things that help me a lot are posting comments on my blog agreeing/disagreeing with my ideas, purchasing and providing feedback on the book, and giving ideas for improving the company and/or web site.</ul>From here, the relationship can develop into a business partnership, a friendship, a combination of the both, or anywhere in between. </ol>With all of this said, I'd like to explore using <a href="https://www.linkedin.com">LinkedIn</a>, a leading online social networking tool for professionals. If you'd like to develop a relationship with me, please add me to your LinkedIn network (email: michael@successmanifesto.com). We can work from there!!