NFIB

Staying Networked
04/ 02/ 2002

In this tough market, no one has to tell you how important it is to network. However, what a lot of people don't recognize until they are faced with a slowdown in their business is it pays to stay networked--particularly in good times. Staying networked on a regular basis will put you steps ahead of everyone else who has not remained connected when it comes time for getting the information, resources or business prospects you need. In today's Workshop, Rebecca Zucker, a career and business coach who specializes in small businesses, explains how simple it is to stay networked.

While most people are happy to help you by either taking time to meet with you or spending a few minutes to chat on the phone, their time is limited and no one likes a fair weather friend or colleague. It is uncomfortable for both parties to become reconnected only when one person needs something from the other. This may work once, but it rarely works twice.

Aside from the obvious efforts to join industry associations or attend alumni events, here are some simple yet highly effective ways to stay connected and build stronger professional relationships.

1. Let others know what you're up to.

This can be done easily by email or in a holiday card. By letting someone know, "I recently relocated to Chicago to launch a new business," you are also letting them know that you'd like to keep in touch with them. Most will be flattered that you kept them up to date and won't be as surprised to hear from you if you do call them in the future for a favor.

2. Go to lunch.

It's easy to get consumed at work or in your daily activities and just inhale a sandwich at your desk. However, by making a point to go to lunch at least once or twice a week with a friend or colleague, you can not only stay in touch, but you can also find out what's happening with other people and other companies.

3. Call classmates and colleagues when you are traveling on business.

Not only does this beat watching TV in your hotel room, connecting with old colleagues when you are in town is also a great way to find out what's going on with them. Be sure to return the invitation when they are in your city on business or holiday.

4. Give others something they need.

This is best done unsolicited, but is just as important when someone asks you for help. When you put people in contact with potential distributors, clients and partners or pass on useful information, they will remember your generosity and return the favor. For example, by sending someone information on an upcoming conference with a note saying "I thought you might be interested in this," you remind them of your presence and demonstrate your willingness to help them. Once again, most people will be flattered that you thought of them.

5. Take leadership positions.

Whether it is at your church or synagogue, leading a task force within an industry group or planning an event for your alumni association, assuming a leadership position gives you the ability to meet diverse groups of professionals and cultivate new contacts.

6. Connect others.

By putting other people in touch and helping them to broaden their networks, they expand the realm of people that they, in turn, can put you in touch with. They will also remember the favor and return it one day.

7. Help others succeed.

As the saying goes, "It pays to know people in high places." Help others attain these high places, so you can know them.

Networking is not about "working a room," but is an ongoing effort to stay in touch with others. Like exercise, the more you do it, the less of an effort it becomes. Furthermore, by staying connected on a regular basis, people will start to come to you as a source of information. When you've achieved and maintained this level of connection with others, your call to them will seem far less of an imposition than it otherwise might have been.

Rebecca Zucker is a Career and Business Coach, specializing in Career Transition and Entrepreneurship/Small Business. She can be reached at rszucker@yahoo.com

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