One of
the most valuable things you can do for a networking partner, beyond making a
direct referral, is introducing them to someone else you know who could also be
a great networking partner. It’s
quick and easy (trust me – I do it for members of The Power Lunch Project all
day long!) and can me done via a short email!
Here
are a few things to remember:
Don’t
Be Random – It’s
not really helpful to match two professionals up just because they want to
network in general, try to make matches based on industry, hobbies, or even
personalities. If you don’t know
the types of professionals your networking partner would like to meet – ASK!
Tell
‘em Why – When
making an introduction, tel the parties why you are doing so. Something like “Hi Mary and Jane! I wanted to introduce you ladies since
you are both in real estate-related fields and might make great networking
partners!”
Give
Permission –
Sometimes people are shy about asking for a networking meeting. They think it sounds “salesy” or maybe
they are afraid of rejection.
Whatever the reason, say in your intro email that you hope that the
parties will get together for a face-to-face meeting. It makes it less awkward for one of them to ask!
Invite
Yourself – Think
adding yourself into the lunch or coffee meeting with your networking partners
would help move the networking process along? Go ahead and say so!
So get
out your Roledex and open your LinkedIn connections and start making a few
networking introductions! In fact,
make a few each week! What’s in it
for you? You’ll get to be known as
the “Connector Extraordinaire” and that means you will be the “go to” person,
which is a great opportunity to show off your talents and a good way to stay at
the top of people’s minds!
Happy
Networking!
Sara
Rosenberg
Connector-in-Chief
The
Power Lunch Project
http://www.ThePowerLunchProject.com
