How to Maintain A Professional Networking Relationship

In today's fast-paced and interconnected professional world, networking has become an essential part of career growth and success. While many of us understand the importance of making connections, what's often overlooked is the art of maintaining and nurturing these relationships over time. After all, the true power of networking lies not just in making new connections but in cultivating and leveraging existing ones.

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In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to maintain and enhance your professional networking relationships!

Step 1: Meeting them

The first step in maintaining a professional networking relationship is, well, meeting someone. Whether it's a virtual coffee chat or an in-person meeting, initiating contact after connecting on platforms like LinkedIn is crucial. Take the initiative to set up a call or meeting, and don't forget to follow through with a date and time. If it's a virtual meeting, send a Google Calendar invite to show your commitment.

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Not sure where to start? These helpful tips can assist you in pinpointing the individuals you'd like to establish connections with.

Look Up Your School Alumni

Alumni from your school or university can be valuable connections. Alumni often have a shared sense of community and may be more willing to help fellow graduates.
You can use alumni networks on social media or alumni association websites to find and connect with them.
When reaching out to alumni, mention your shared alma mater as a conversation starter.

Interested in a Specific Field?

If you have a particular industry or field in mind, research professionals who are active in that area.
LinkedIn is a great platform for this purpose. You can use its search filters to find people with relevant job titles, skills, or connections to specific companies or organizations.
Tailor your introductory message to express your interest in their field, which can pique their curiosity and make them more inclined to connect.

Look Up People Who Work at Your Dream Company

If you have a dream company in mind, identify employees or professionals currently working there.
LinkedIn is also useful here. Search for the company's profile and navigate to the "People" tab to find employees.

When reaching out to them, express your admiration for the company and your interest in learning more about their experiences there.

Tips for Picking a Meeting Place:

Consider Noise Levels: When selecting a location for your networking meeting, opt for a place that isn't overly noisy. A quiet atmosphere makes it easier to have a meaningful conversation without distractions.
Convenience Matters: Choose a location that is convenient for both you and your networking contact. This ensures that neither party has to go out of their way, making the meeting more accessible and comfortable.
Opt for Casual Over Formal: Keep the setting relaxed and casual, especially for the initial meeting. A coffee shop or a cozy café often works better than a formal dinner setting. It sets a comfortable tone for the conversation.
Accessibility: Ensure that the meeting place is easily accessible, whether by public transportation or with ample parking nearby. You want your contact to arrive without hassle.
Privacy Matters: While a bit of background noise can add ambiance, ensure that your chosen location provides a level of privacy. You want your conversation to be discreet and comfortable for both parties.
Ask for Preferences: If you're unsure where to meet, don't hesitate to ask your networking contact if they have a preferred location. They may have a spot they frequent, which can make them feel more at ease during the meeting.

Remember, the meeting place sets the tone for your networking conversation. A well-chosen location can make the interaction more enjoyable and productive for both you and your contact.

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Should you offer to pay for their coffee? Short answer, yes. As a courtesy and since they are providing you assistance, it is appropriate to offer paying for their coffee.

Don't Just Talk About Yourself or Work

Networking isn't just about exchanging business-related information; it's an opportunity to connect with someone on a deeper level. Here are some tips on how to keep the conversation engaging and personal:

Explore Common Interests: Beyond work-related topics, inquire about shared hobbies, interests, or passions. Finding common ground outside of the professional sphere can strengthen your connection.
Ask About Their Journey: People love to talk about themselves. Encourage your networking contact to share their career journey, challenges they've overcome, and what they've learned along the way. Actively listening to their story shows genuine interest.
Share Personal Anecdotes: Offer personal anecdotes or experiences related to shared interests. These stories can help create a sense of camaraderie and make the conversation more relatable.
Discuss Non-Work Goals: Inquire about their personal goals and aspirations outside of their career. Whether they dream of traveling, learning a new skill, or pursuing a creative endeavor, these insights provide a more holistic view of the person.
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of closed-ended questions that yield yes or no answers, pose open-ended questions that invite thoughtful responses. For example, "What do you enjoy doing in your free time?" encourages a more meaningful conversation.
Express Genuine Curiosity: Demonstrate your curiosity by asking follow-up questions and actively engaging with their responses. This not only shows your interest but also encourages a more balanced and dynamic conversation.
Be Attentive to Cues: Pay attention to non-verbal cues and body language. If your networking contact seems enthusiastic about a particular topic, delve deeper into that subject to keep the conversation engaging.

Networking is about building relationships, and personal connections often form the strongest bonds. By showing interest in your contact's life beyond work, you can create a more meaningful and memorable networking experience for both parties.

Not sure what questions you should ask?

What inspired you to pursue your current career path?
Can you share a memorable experience or challenge you've faced in your profession?
Outside of work, what are your hobbies or interests that you're passionate about?
Have you come across any exciting books, podcasts, or articles lately that you'd recommend?
What's the best piece of career advice you've ever received?
Do you have any upcoming personal or professional goals you're excited about?
What's a project or achievement you're particularly proud of in your career?
Are there any causes or charitable activities you're involved in or passionate about?
Can you share a challenging decision you had to make in your career and how you approached it?
How do you balance your work life with personal life to maintain a sense of well-being?

Follow-Up After the Meeting

Following up after your initial networking meeting is a crucial step in nurturing a professional relationship. It not only shows your appreciation for their time and insights but also reinforces your commitment to maintaining the connection. A simple yet heartfelt thank-you message can go a long way in expressing your gratitude.

If your networking contact offered to review any materials, such as your resume, cover letter, or an essay, take advantage of this opportunity. Send these materials promptly and professionally. Not only does this show your eagerness to receive constructive feedback, but it also allows you to benefit from their expertise.

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Remember, this thoughtful follow-up is more than just a polite gesture; it sets the stage for a productive and mutually beneficial relationship built on trust and respect.

Keeping Track of Your Network

As your network expands, it's vital to stay organized. Keep a record of your networking contacts, noting their names, contact info, and any valuable advice they provide. Networking isn't just about what you can get; it's also about what you can give. Share your career updates and express gratitude for their guidance. It's a two-way street, and mutual support leads to more meaningful connections.

To maintain a well-organized network, consider using digital tools or apps designed for contact management and note-taking. These can streamline the process and ensure you don't miss out on valuable insights or follow-up opportunities.

Helpful Tip: Don't underestimate the power of small gestures like sending a congratulatory message for a contact's achievements or sharing articles or resources that might be of interest to them. These simple acts of kindness can strengthen your connections and contribute to a thriving professional network.

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Regular Meet-Ups and Fostering Mentorship

Continuously investing in your professional relationships is a key to long-term success. Beyond routine meet-ups and mentorship opportunities, also look for chances to support your network in their endeavors. Offer assistance when they face challenges or celebrate their achievements with genuine enthusiasm. Being a reliable and supportive contact can turn your professional network into a valuable community that not only helps you but also thrives collectively, opening doors to new opportunities and insights in your career journey.

Mentee-Mentorship as a Two-Way Street

Reciprocal Growth

Mentorship isn't just about the mentee learning from the mentor; it's a relationship where both sides can benefit. As a mentee, remember that you bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and unique skills to the table. Your mentor can learn from your experiences, too. Don't hesitate to share your ideas and insights. This mutual exchange makes the mentorship experience richer and more fulfilling for both parties, creating a supportive and dynamic partnership.

Mentorship's Ongoing Cycle

Mentorship doesn't stop with the mentee's success. It's a cycle that continues to evolve. As you grow in your career, you may find opportunities to mentor others. Embrace this chance to give back and help others navigate their journeys. By becoming both a mentor and a mentee, you contribute to a network of support and development that extends far beyond individual relationships. Mentorship, in its essence, is a continuous two-way street of learning, sharing, and growing.

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