You’ve bought in. You see the value of networking. But it can still be hard to know how to approach people and what to say.
Your focus should be to add value, always. This also solves your problem if you are squeamish about networking because you don’t like to ask for favors. Fine. Don’t. Offer favors instead.
Ways to add value for people
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Listen to them – nobody gets listened to enough
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Ask thoughtful questions
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Introduce them to relevant people
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Offer to help out with something important to them
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Ask for advice – people do love to give advice.
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Send them articles or other information that is truly relevant to their personal and professional interests.
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Take the initiative – shy people find that valuable.
What ways have you found to add value to someone else?
