12 Rules of Networking

Kim Albritton of Black Belt Business Profits shared the 12 rules of networking in the Pittsburgh Business Times. I have added my comments to reinforce how the rules may be applied.

1. Don’t try to sell
Most people mistakenly stroll into a meeting with the idea they need to find someone to sell to. Don’t do it on social networking sites.

2. Give before you get
I have found this rule to be true and establish yourself as a giver first to build your connections. And contribute to discussions with quality insight.

3. Understand that it’s network
Power networkers work at it and they set aside time to think about whom they know and how people in their network can help each other. And how they can help their connections.

4. Be interesting
Be fresh and convey information that your professional network can use – on a daily basis.

5. Set goals
Establish your goals for each social networking site. Work at networking daily to reach your goals.

6. Throw a Connection/Networking get to together
Agree with your contacts that you’ll meet for lunch and everyone will bring their contact list. Basically turn your contacts into appointments and projects/work.

7. Be interesting.
This one’s important enough to mention twice.

8. Make it easy to refer to you
So, you have succeeded and found a strategic partner who wants to refer people to you. Be specific and easy for someone to introduce or refer you to another connection/client.

9. Play matchmaker
Spend some time each week to think about whom you can match up within your network. Then make the introductions. This works and it expands your SOI. Remember Rule #2.

10. Say thank you
If you get a referral or introduction from someone, say thanks. Send a personal note.

11. Test alliances quickly
Don’t waste time on people who don’t understand networking is reciprocal. If someone is trying to sell you something that is not relevant to your, move on.

12. Have a system
Make your life easy and have a system for starting conversations, meeting with partners the first time, following up and making introductions. As an example for every connection, I have a standard written response thanking them for the connection and willingness to network together on projects of mutual interest.