How to – Improve Your Networking and Improve Your Network If you want to improve and possibly expand your professional network, the best way is to hone the skills needed that create those connections in the first place. Although a few professionals think that meeting people and networking are synonymous, most of us know that this is simply not the case. In fact, how you network can mean the difference between being known and having a network that really works for you. And that difference is a big one.

Some tips for developing a successful professional network:

Go it alone – It’s easier to create an impression, develop rapport, and make a strong connection when you are alone and you connect to someone who is also alone. While it may seem as if a group provides some comfort, a person who is one their own is probably more pleased that you are interested in them and have taken the initiative to introduce yourself.

Think “who”, not where – Ask yourself “Who do I want to know?” Knowing “who” you would like to connect to and be aligned with will help you figure out where those folks hang out. There may be specific events, associations or conferences that they attend. Ask your existing connections if they know those people you hope to meet and if they can introduce you.

Focus – Shut off the phone, pager, or Blackberry. You don’t want to be distracted when you are making a first impression. Meeting them is the reason you are there, and it’s the most important thing you have to do. Don’t look around to see who else might be in the room or is trying to contact you when you are talking to someone. Plainly put - it’s rude.

What could you do for them – Do what you can for your new contact. Send them an article that might dovetail with their interests, provide information about meetings they might be interested in attending, suggest books they should read, or other people they should know. If you think highly of them – refer them (a lot). Relationships happen with shared experiences and their foundation is built on trust.

Strength is quality, not quantity – Sometimes the people you would most like to meet aren’t attending the events where you might meet them. Ever wonder why? They are strengthening their existing network, not focusing on creating a larger one! Make sure you give plenty of referrals and information to the folks in you network who are credible, competent, and ethical. A good networking partner practices reciprocity.

A good network is a lot like a good garden. You don’t just throw some seeds out in the dirt and hope for the best. If you want to see good things develop, you check on your plants or vegetables with regularity, pull weeds, provide food, and nurture and care for them as they grow and thrive. The same can be said for your professional network.  9:16 AM •