The Art of Nurturing Professional Relationships
Building a strong network is crucial for career advancement and personal growth. While attending events and conferences can be an exciting way to meet new people, it’s the follow-up and organization that truly solidifies these connections. In this article, we’ll explore the two critical steps to building and sustaining professional relationships.
Step 1: Get Your Contacts in Order
After collecting business cards, it’s essential to organize them in a way that makes sense for you. Consider using apps like Cam Card or Evernote Hello to digitize your contacts, or store them in a binder for easy reference. Take notes on each person, including where you met, what you discussed, and any common interests. This will help you tailor your follow-up approach and ensure that you’re providing value to each connection.
Create a System for Regular Check-Ins
Develop a routine to reconnect with your contacts on a regular basis. This could be as simple as forwarding relevant articles or inviting them to events. Make sure to remind yourself monthly to reach out and catch up with each person. By doing so, you’ll be able to nurture your relationships and keep the conversation flowing.
Step 2: Follow Up with Purpose
Within 24 hours of meeting someone, send a personalized note or email to help them remember your conversation. Include a brief summary of your discussion and offer to meet or talk on the phone soon. If you asked how you could help them during your initial conversation, now is the time to provide that assistance.
Leverage LinkedIn for Deeper Connections
Send a LinkedIn invitation with a summary of who you are and how you met. This will help your new connections understand your background and expertise. You can also use LinkedIn’s export tool to download your contacts and share their information outside of the platform.
Additional Tools for Effective Follow-Up
Consider using Newsle and HARO (Help A Reporter Out) to stay informed about your contacts’ activities. Newsle sends email digests when someone in your network appears in the news, while HARO forwards opportunities from press outlets to be quoted or featured in their stories. Sharing these opportunities with your contacts can be a thoughtful way to show you care about their success.
By implementing these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to developing and sustaining meaningful professional relationships. Remember, it’s the small gestures that count, and consistent follow-up is key to nurturing your network.
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