How to Become a Master Networker

The Master Networker - (Connector)

Who is a Master Networker - This person is someone who has built a strategic and growing network and has influence and expertise in their field. The master networker is resourceful and a builder of communities. He/she can be an industry expert, recruiter, CEO, etc.

When building a network, it is essential to have connectors as part of your connections to help propel you to success.

The Master genuinely cares about the development of other people. He/she is authentic, confident in his/her abilities, and is open to giving. They are purposeful, intentional, and strategic in adding value. They support, encourage, praise, and do not expect anything in return. The master networker builds long-lasting valuable relationships, offer resources, and create strong communities that lead to great success and net worth over time.

How To Become a Master Networker

1. Examine your current resources. You already know someone that is well connected. Think about all your friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers. Consider your entire social network. Maybe you’re a member of a church, tennis club, or a local women’s group. Are you leveraging those contacts effectively?

2. The key to effective networking is consistency and persistence. Dedicating 10-20 mins per day can go a long way to building those valuable connections. It’s like going to the gym, you need to be consistent in your efforts if you want to see big results and achieve your weight loss goal. Set aside that time to reach out to people each week.

3. Join relevant local and national organizations. Whether you’re an engineer, police officer, priest, schoolteacher, or plumber, there are organizations that cater to your needs and interests. Become a part of them. Some organizations have monthly fees set up that might be more manageable that paying the full year membership at once, take advantage of that. Do some research.

Some organizations to consider:

• The US Chamber of Commerce

• The National Black MBA Association

• The National Association of Black Accountants

• IAW - International Association of Women

• Volunteers of America

• Toast Master International

• National Communication Association

1. Make use of social media. LinkedIn.com is great for networking. Utilize social media and make your presence known to the world. Virtual networking has become increasingly normal especially since the pandemic. Take advantage of the many social media platforms that are available to you and start connecting. Be consistent.

2. Be proactive. You can’t just stand in the middle of the crowd at a networking event and expect people to line up for the privilege of talking to you. The burden is on you to start conversations. Take the bull by the horns and mingle. You’ll get much better with practice.

3. Learn to ask open-ended questions. It’s hard to maintain a conversation by asking questions that can be answered with a “yes” or “no”. Ask questions that require a detailed answer. Networking events are already so awkward, here is my secret, think of conversational starters. For example: What is something you are obsessed with? This is a great question, it lightens the mood and it gives the person plenty to talk about. It also allow you to ask follow-up questions and also share your own funny obsessions.

4. Follow up religiously. Communicating with someone one time won’t do much for you. Reach out to the most promising contacts you’ve made and touch base. Do not be a business card collector. Getting to the next level in a relationship takes work and communication. After a networking event organize the connections you made, put notes to them and reminders for the follow up. The magic is in the follow up, be sure to have information from your previous conversation to reference. Stay in touch.

5. You can’t expect to receive more effort and value than you provide. You truly receive what you give when it comes to networking. You won’t get much if you don’t give much. Make a real effort to help others.

6. Focus on quality over quantity. Passing out your business card like you’re passing out flyers won’t benefit you a whole lot . Everyone can see that you're not being authentic. Try to make a few real connections rather than just connecting for the sake of connecting. Quality counts.

7. Connect others together. This can be especially powerful. Bring other people together. This is especially easy to do and can pay off down the road for your own career.

8. Avoid selling or asking for anything. If every time you reach out to someone, you’re trying to get something from them, people will tire of you very quickly. Instead, give them something. “I know you’re interested in the effect of the Trans-Pacific Partnership on the trade deficit. Here’s an article I thought you might be interested in.”

Attributes of a Master Networker

Networking can be an effective way to begin the process of building relationships with potential employers. Remember more than 80% of jobs are gained through networking. Be intentional. Do not be selfish in your networking. Build on those connections and maintain. Ensure that you’re also doing all you can for your network. The more value you can provide, the more you’re likely to receive.