You're Networking All Wrong. Here’s How Executives Do It.

TL;DR

Networking is about adding value and building genuine connections, not just exchanging business cards.

Transcript

the majority of people hate networking and we're going to flip it around and make it awesome everyone thinks that networking is about sending cold DMS on LinkedIn or awkwardly mingling at a conference happy hour but that's definitely not how Executives approach networking so I think as that young person or is that more senior person we're on this w... Read More

Key Insights

• Executives approach networking as a means to help others rather than focusing on what they can gain, which shifts the mindset from taking to giving.
• Building a 'Proto list' of VIPs helps in maintaining and nurturing high-value relationships by focusing on a select few rather than trying to connect with everyone.
• The 'give to get' strategy involves offering something valuable that is easy for you to provide, beneficial for the other person, and leads to a next step in the relationship.
• Strategic partnerships are crucial for professionals whose work is episodic; these relationships can lead to referrals and opportunities.
• Commonality is a key factor in building relationships; finding shared interests or experiences can bridge gaps, including age differences.
• Asking for help or advice can deepen relationships as mutually beneficial relationships tend to be stronger.
• Maintaining relationships requires regular check-ins, ideally at least once a month, to keep the connection alive and meaningful.
• Using a system to categorize and remind you of your contacts' interests and interactions can significantly enhance your networking effectiveness.

Questions & Answers

Q: How do executives approach networking differently?

Executives approach networking by focusing on helping others rather than seeking what they can gain. This mindset shift from taking to giving makes networking more enjoyable and productive, as it builds genuine connections based on mutual benefit and value addition.

Q: What is a 'Proto list' and how is it used?

A 'Proto list' is a curated list of 10 to 15 high-value contacts that are crucial for one's career or business success. By focusing on these key relationships, individuals can maintain regular touchpoints and meaningful interactions, ensuring that these connections are nurtured and leveraged effectively over time.

Q: What is the 'give to get' strategy in networking?

The 'give to get' strategy involves offering something valuable that is relatively easy for you to provide, beneficial to the recipient, and leads to a next step in the relationship. This approach encourages reciprocity and builds trust, as it shows a genuine interest in helping others succeed.

Q: Why are strategic partnerships important?

Strategic partnerships are crucial, especially for professionals whose work is episodic, as they can lead to referrals and new opportunities. By building relationships with individuals who can recommend or introduce you to potential clients, you expand your network and increase your chances of success.

Q: How can commonality help in networking?

Commonality is a powerful tool in networking as it helps bridge gaps and foster connections. Finding shared interests or experiences creates a sense of familiarity and trust, making it easier to build relationships, even across generational or professional divides.

Q: How can asking for help deepen relationships?

Asking for help or advice can deepen relationships because it creates a dynamic of mutual benefit. When you seek someone's expertise or opinion, it shows respect for their knowledge and can lead to stronger, more collaborative connections, as people generally appreciate being valued and consulted.

Q: What is the importance of regular check-ins in networking?

Regular check-ins are crucial for maintaining relationships, as they keep the connection alive and meaningful. By reaching out at least once a month, you ensure that you remain top of mind for your contacts, which can lead to new opportunities and a more robust network over time.

Q: How can a system for categorizing contacts improve networking?

A system for categorizing contacts helps in effectively managing and nurturing relationships by keeping track of each contact's interests, interactions, and preferences. This organization allows for more personalized and meaningful engagements, making your networking efforts more efficient and impactful.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Networking should be seen as an opportunity to help others, focusing on adding value and building genuine connections rather than simply exchanging business cards.

• Creating a 'Proto list' of key contacts allows for focused relationship maintenance, ensuring regular touchpoints and meaningful interactions with high-value individuals.

• The 'give to get' approach involves offering something valuable that is easy for you to provide, beneficial for the other person, and leads to further relationship development.