Practice Networking
Etiquette
The last, but
possibly the most important tool for good networking is to make sure you
observe networking etiquette. Here are a few essentials to remember:
Always respect your
contact's names. Get an OK before you use a person's name as a referral to get
to someone else.
Make sure you call
people at times that are convenient for them. If you're on the East Coast,
don't forget about the three-hour time difference and call someone on the West
Coast at 6 a.m. Don't wake someone at midnight just to "touch base."
Follow through on
your promises. If someone asks for a copy of an article you've mentioned, jot
that request on the back of her or his business card and send the article
within the week. If you offer to give someone a phone number, make sure you
send it. Even if you haven't made specific commitments to your contacts,
communicate with them to stay visible. Send them cards at holiday time, ask
them to lunch "for no reason at all," clip articles you know they
would appreciate and send them with your card. Think of creative ways to keep
in touch.
Thank everyone who
helps you or provides you with leads. At any given meeting, you're bound to
come away with at least three ideas or tips. Thank the people who offered them
with a one-minute phone call or brief handwritten note. It's wise to thank
people for leads and ideas even if their suggestions don't pan out; your
contacts will appreciate the follow-up.
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