Keep networking, but keep it subtle

Posted by JoeyJoe on July 15, 2007 5:40 PM PDT

Recommend this? YES NO

Be a connector. Make a lot of introductions. When you read an article about an subject that might be useful for one of your contacts, cut the story out and mail it to him with your business card. Or if it's online, forward the link via email with a short note. You'll be making yourself very useful and people will come to value your steady background networking. A connector links people together and, through the constant flow of introductions, make himself or herself a vital link.

Low level background networking is a good way to keep your career options open without overtly trolling for a new job. Nobody likes a hard sell. Aggressive networking can be a turnoff for many people. But everybody likes to be connected to a connector.

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3 Comments

I have been called a professional networker - and it offends me. I like people, I am fairly good at keeping in touch with people. One of my biggest strengths is my ability to build a connection with someone quickly. I am able to do this because I am sincere. If I don't like the person - EVERN IF THEY COULD HELP ME - I do not keep in touch or make an effort. The goal of networking should be to have good people in your life (in this case it is for business rather then personal). Be a good person to your network and this conversation is a non-starter.

People can smell when you are 'networking' vs. when you are building a relationship.

Posted by jns on July 15, 2007 10:18 PM PDT

So true! Too often networking become about meeting the most important person in the room or passing out business cards. In reality, networking is about creating and maintaining connections. Great tip!

Nicolette Pizzitola | Compass Point Associates, LLC | www.compasspointassociates.org | 1.888.POINT.55

Posted by Nicolette Pizzitola on July 25, 2007 7:45 PM PDT

This is great topic with some awesome thoughts -- thank you! I just recently went to a networking function, while it was informative I walked away feeling like the most important function was to hand out as many business cards as possible. There was not a lot of engaging conversation, above and beyond, "Hi! What do you do?" I have found it difficult to establish a feeling of connection from surface level conversation. Frankly, it leaves me feeling rather cold. Aside from networking groups, I would love to hear from others as to the venues they have found helpful in establishing connections. Where do you go to make connections?