Networking is a journey; it’s not something that happens all at once. Rather, it takes place over time and includes a series of touchpoints along the way.
When you think about your best relationship, how long did it take you to cultivate? Though you might have had an immediate connection with that individual, likely your trust grew as you got to know one another, maybe as you interacted or transacted over the years. And, to the degree that you have experienced some challenging or tough moments with that individual, you were able to work through them more effectively because of the strength of the relationship.
And, so it goes with every connection. While you may opt for just a few very tight-knit, close connections, by developing your relationship base to include a number of individuals with whom you have a combination of strong and loose ties, you will experience great satisfaction from the variety and diversity of contacts that you possess.
Didn’t get to cover every topic you had hoped to during last week’s coffee? No worries. Schedule your next one with the same person for six weeks out. Eager to catch up with someone with whom you haven’t talked for a while? Text them right now to see about lunch next month.
Networking is a journey. Take in each experience. Live in the moment. Be present right now. Build relationships along the way.
Happy Networking!
P.S. – Nobody understands the power of living in the moment and managing the journey better than our military service personnel, veterans and their families. Thank you for your service. Wishing everyone a meaningful Veteran’s Day!