7 Ways to Refresh Your Networking List

networking – Photo credit: smallbiztrends.com

It’s spring cleaning time, and your network could use some refreshing as well. Stalking your relationships online is not enough, you actually need to put effort into nurturing and developing your networking list. Remember, your network is your net worth!

Here are 7 tips to help you spruce up your networking list:

1. Just say hello! Send a quick hello card, drop a note to congratulate them on their new job or work anniversary, let them know you changed positions or jobs, etc. Put some thought into your networking as often as you can, not just when you need a favor!

2. Attend more networking events: Your annual meet-and-greet at your local accounting society chapter may not be enough. Look around for other networking events as well. Your company may sponsor some, or host numerous organizations you could benefit from!

3. Use the power of chain networking! You know how the friend of your friend is also your friend? Well, that’s what I call the power of chain networking! Look around at your current connections, and (respectfully) use their connections too. Or you can ask them to refer you to their contacts. The more, the merrier, right?

4. Jazz up your resume! Yes, you can dust off, spruce up and spring clean your resume as often as needed! Yet don’t forget to also jazz it up! Make it more appealing by using powerful verbs, format it in a more compelling way, or even adding images and pictures if you’re in a more visual field! Jazz it up!

5. Get even more social! Having a basic Linked In profile no longer cuts it! Get more social, post updates on your Linked In profile, update your picture, seek recommendations! In short, sell yourself!

6. Tackle your mental blocks! A large part of effective networking rests on how you come across, as a professional and as an individual! Are you afraid of being perceived as too weak, or too aggressive? Are you filled with doubt and angst when introducing yourself? Check yourself, and tackle the mental blocks that are keeping you from making the right connections.

7. Ready, set, go! Last but not least, you’ve got to act! Make a plan of networking attack, and follow it! Don’t get discouraged by the lack of answers or the negative reactions you may get. Continue in your efforts, and watch your network (and your net worth) grow!