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WAYS TO BUILD A POWERFUL NETWORK




 Network isn't just about handing out and collecting business cards. It's just about connecting, establishing and building relationships that are mutually beneficial for you and others. It's well known that networking is the key to a successful career. You can have the skills and the education, but without connections, it will be very difficult to get a job or even build a business. With so many personal and professional factors involved, it's important to put your energy toward building a powerful network.

A lot of people have trouble with networking because they are introverted, feel like they are using people and come off as selfish instead of helpful. Here are some tips that will help you, even if you're not a natural schmoozer.

#1. Focus on the right people.

The secret to networking isn't to attend a networking event and pass out as many business cards as you can. It's not meeting as many people as possible in hopes something will workout. Instead, you need to concentrate on the people who you know will be able to make a difference in your career.

#2. Have a game plan. 

You wouldn't pitch your business to potential investors or customers without doing research and developing a plan of action first, right? The same can be said of networking.
You should know your purpose by asking questions like:
  • What do you hope to accomplish?
  • Do you want to identify potential clients?
  • Do you hope to find a partner for your next venture?
It is recommended that you research key attendees prior to attending an event. Scope out these individuals LinkedIn profiles to learn the basics about them and look for common connections.

#3. Become a connector

You don't always have to gain something in a networking relationship. If you can introduce people who can benefit from one another, it's just as effective. You can build a stronger rapport with multiple people and it makes you very good.

#4. Create win/win situations

It's very important that both you and the other party gain equally when networking. If you benefit more than the other person, he or she will feel cheated and used. When that happens, you won't be able to go back and build a long-term relationship.

#5. Be unforgettable

How many people do you come into contact with each day? More importantly, how many would you say actually made a lasting impression on you?  One way to be memorable is to have unique business cards, a catchy tagline or a piece of signature attire, like a blazing orange tie.
The following is recommended:
  • Bringing a wingman to a networking events
  • Direct each conversation with a purpose
  • Look for an ''feel the same way'' moment
  • Leverage the value-add make your self valuable to someone by asking yourself how can I help this person?
  • Shine in your element, attend events where you thrive and practice in environments where you don't
Don't pester the connection by bothering them every day- they are busy people too- but try to touch base with them semi-frequently so that you stay fresh in their minds.

#6. Remember to reconnect

We've all had people who will contact us out of the blue after years of never touching base. When that happens, you typically don't want to go out of your way for them because they haven't put any effort into sustaining the relationship. After you choose the right people to network with, remember to stay in contact with them.

#7. Use social networks




Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter are excellent ways to start connecting and building a strong network. But, only if you treat these platforms with the same level of respect that you would at a networking event. On LinkedIn for example, you can get introduced to new contacts through your current connections. You can also use LinkedIn as a professional database to find people who work in your profession at various companies you're interested in.

First and first capital International Ltd is a personal development company that can couch you through and how to network. We also have a system that can help you make money online while building your network. Access it here:





Written by: Antony Moturi

DJ | Social Media Specialist | Online Marketer | Content Creator | Sound Engineer

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