So You've Added Connections to Your Network, Now What?

Making new connections and building your network takes time and effort.  You have to attend networking events, present yourself well, and actually talk to people.  You've gone out and done the work.  You made eye contact, were a good listener, and met a lot of interesting people that are the newest members in your LinkedIn contacts.  Great.  So, now what do you do with them?  How do you put this network you've built to some use for you?  I've got good news and bad news.  The bad news is, while building your network takes effort, it doesn't stop there.  The good news is, that the effort you make in engaging your network is worth more than you can imagine.  But you have to know how to go about it.

Related:  Tips for Networking in Person

Without a network it's almost impossible to get anywhere in business, whether you own one or you're looking to work for one.  That's why we network.  The more people know and like you, the more willing they are to help you.  That's the purpose of your network, but it's also the purpose of the people who's networks you belong to.  It's not just about you.  They've included you as a contact because of the probability that you may be of benefit to them, at some point.  They're networking for the same reasons you are.  To help themselves get ahead.  


The point is to make other people want to help you as much as they want to help themselves.  The only way to do that, is to help them first.  When you're looking for opportunities for yourself, make sure you keep an eye out for how you can help someone else.  Make a habit of looking for opportunities for others in your network and contacting them to let them know.  Like anything, the more you do it, the easier it becomes.  

Related:  Using Your Network to Find a Job

Just for example, the other day I was meeting with a potential client to discuss a social media marketing plan.  During the conversation it was mentioned that they're also going to need someone to help them with more traditional marketing methods, like print and radio.  The first thing I thought of was a friend who owns a marketing company that could help them.  Although it wouldn't be business for me, I asked what their needs were so I could pass it along to my friend.  If I can help generate some business for him, he's likely to do the same for me.  And tell other people that I helped him, too.

If you want people to help you, which is the purpose of building your network, you have to help them first.  Actively look for opportunities for people you know, and refer them.  When you start helping others succeed, they'll start helping you.  And really, it's just the law of karma.  You get back what you put out.