What Networking and Relationship Building is All About Print
Written by Mitzi Reed   

The more you help others, the more they will want to help you. Networkers develop and nurture contacts for information, support, advice, referrals and resources. It's a powerful way of building professional relationships and generating new business opportunities.

Networking is about being genuine and authentic, building trust and relationships and seeing how you can help others by sharing, learning and supporting.

Why Network

People do business and refer business with people they know, like and trust. The purpose of networking should be to help other people succeed. The more you help others, the more they will want to help you.

Networking is a powerful way of building relationships and generating new business opportunities. The more relationships you build the wider your network and the chances of increasing your database.

Tips to Networking and Relationship Building

  • Be able to clearly state what you do
  • Develop a 10 second introduction
  • Approach people with a natural genuine smile and make good eye contact
  • Develop a firm handshake. Lean towards the person as you do. A handshake says many things about you.
  • Make yourself approachable. Be interested in them and help them get what they want and need.
  • Be cheerful and have a positive attitude.
  • Know your target audience. With whom do you want to connect. However, don't push people away who are not directly related to you or your company. They may be a valuable source of knowledge or advice or be able to introduce you to others. Develop a list of questions that you can ask the person in order to break the ice and get to know them a little better.
  • Look for common interests.
  • Be aware of your body language. Also be aware of the other person's body language.
  • Always follow up with people you meet. A handwritten note just to say "nice to meet you" is a nice way and expresses your interest.
  • Sent three handwritten notes, then additional emails and make 3 phone calls per week.
The more you invest in your network the more you will be rewarded from your network. The more connections you have the more leverage you possess.