A blazingly simple guide to build a better network.

I am a reserved person and can’t easily initiate conversations. Yet, I have built a strong network of 1000s, got 4 jobs in as many countries, and grew personally and professionally.

Here is how I built my network, and you can, too.

  1. Attend conferences, seminars, and meetups.
    • These events don’t have to be related to your industry.
    • Remember, a wider net catches more fish.
  1. Join Professional Associations:
    • A computer society, a fishermen’s club, a Chamber of Commerce – any of these can be great for newer and important business connections.
    • These places always look for volunteers. Offer a helping hand.
  1. Leverage Social Media:
    • Use platforms like LinkedIn or X to connect with industry professionals.
    • Send a personal note or DM suggesting why you want to connect.
    • Ask your connections to help you connect with others.
    • Send a DM to someone new every week. Why not? What’s the worst that can happen?
  1. Follow Up:
    • Always follow up with new contacts after meeting them.
    • Try to find something interesting about them when you meet them.
    • Or, remember something important about them. But don’t be creepy.
  1. Be Genuine:
    • Show genuine interest in others and their work.
    • Listen intently, don’t just hear.
    • Don’t look at your mobile or watch while talking
  1. Offer Help:
    • Be willing to help others without expecting anything in return.
    • Don’t ask for help or demand they help you, as soon you connect with someone.
  1. Practice Active Listening:
    • Listen more than you speak and show empathy.
    • Match with their mood and energy level
  1. Prepare an Elevator Pitch:
    • Have a concise and compelling introduction ready.
    • Think how you would deliver an impactful introduction without boasting about your achievements.
  1. Volunteer:
    • Offer your time and skills to causes you care about.
    • You will be surprised who you may meet as a volunteer
  1. Be Consistent:
    • Regularly engage with your network, not just when you need something.
    • Be consistent in your efforts. Attending just one meetup will not help you build a big network
  1. Ask Open-Ended Questions:
    • Encourage meaningful conversations by asking open-ended questions.
    • Open-ended questions can be a great way to know someone better.
    • An example is, “what do you enjoy most about your <career> <job> <city>…
  1. Share Knowledge:
    • Share valuable information and insights with your network.
    • Don’t assume that everyone knows what you know
  1. Follow Industry News:
    • Stay updated with the latest trends and news in your industry.
    • Your knowledge can make you look approachable at events
  1. Seek Mentorship:
    • Find mentors and also offer to mentor others.
    • Don’t worry about rejections. Be persistent, but not annoying.

Last, but not the least,

  • Be Patient. Remember, building a strong network takes time and effort.
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