Being overly aggressive or impatient can backfire in the game of networking. Although savvy networkers are results driven, strike a balance and be reasonable in your requests. Find additional ways to share resources, develop relationships and add value without offending or annoying your counterparts.
Listed below are easy, practical and useful ways of navigating through contacts and relationships while networking.
Time Frame
Do your due diligence and follow up in a timely matter, after attending events and making contacts. Before offering products, services and contacts, make it a point to set a time for reconnection. Assess your schedule and the other individuals' work/social demands and plan accordingly to meet up at a later time. Be flexible in the ways you can meet up via phone, through video conferencing or social media outlets. Keep in mind various work, travel agendas. As always, after suggesting a time to meet, be flexible if changes may arise.
Proceed with Caution
Do not push the envelope and cut to the chase on the first follow up. Keep in mind the importance of adding value and paying it forward. Continue to share ideas, look for mutual interests and common ground before trying to sell something or ask for specific help. Give your counterpart an opportunity to get to know you and feel comfortable doing business with you. Show your personality strengths and core values to set the foundation of the relationship.
Checkpoints
Consider periodically connecting with your counterparts after your second or third meet up. Set time within your calendar to follow up and touch base and maintain the relationships. Focus on developing and merging networks to strengthen the networking processes. At this point, you can comfortably ask for referral, leads or recommendations. Also be willing to offer those as well.
Use these tips to develop and leverage quality and meaningful relationships. Show sincerity and professionalism in your interaction for good results.