Establishing Global Connections
Establishing Global Connections
Become a global connector
Think about your network the chances are that the majority of your connections are local? With the online tools and platforms at our disposal, today connecting with people in an international context has never been easier. It is important to remember too that introducing others has a real value. It is not always a prerequisite that you must personally benefit. How often do you consider expanding or contracting your contacts? Do you have the right people in your network, and how are you managing these relationships?
Deliver value to your connections
You may have heard the line Jab, Jab, Right Hook, discussed in a business context by Gary Vaynerchuck. To put it another way, remember to give something before you receive something when it comes to making useful connections. We have all been on the receiving end of a new LinkedIn connection within minutes or sometimes seconds, turning into a new message with a sales pitch attached!
Maintain your network
How often do you hear from someone out of the blue and then realise that they only contact you when they want something? To build successful connections, you need to put in the work. Keeping in touch with people is essential, but so many people do not cover this vital requirement well at all.
Choose who to connect with
Be careful who you network with, and why they make a list.
The reasons for connections can change dramatically depending on the circumstances and context. While you are building your relationships, remember to be a suitable connector for others too. Introducing people that can benefit from the connection can often result in a positive outcome for all parties involved.
Choose the right equipment
If you are climbing a mountain or building a structure, there will be care and consideration given to the tools and plans that you will rely on to achieve your goals. Successful networking is very similar. Where are the people you want to add to your network available? Online/offline at events, on LinkedIn? There are many options at your disposal. You need to be able to utilise the right equipment to help build a beneficial, reliable, and useful network of connections.