A professional practice network of connections is only as good as the quality of the people in it, and the strength of the relationships between those individuals. That’s why super successful professionals approach building their connections lists in different ways.
The purpose of creating your connections lists is twofold. First, creating this list will help you to direct the growth of your professional practice.
Second, the connections list is a roadmap for the type of efforts, actions, collaborations you are going to engage in to grow your professional practice.
It can take months to get connected and grow your list of the right connections and maintain and nurture the relationships with these connections on a regular basis.
Be purposeful and strategic about people to network with during growing your practice by including also these 7 types of people in your connections list:
1. Former colleagues. Your past work colleagues have seen you perform in the job and know your strengths and may want to help you and introduce you to other people.
2. Friends. People you know are most likely to want to help you if they can. Your friends have a vast network (weak links to you) of connections you don’t know about.
3. Alumni/Classmates. Don’t forget to tap into classmates, professors, and alumni as another potential pool of people to network with. You may use LinkedIn to help you find them.
4. Current or former Clients.These people you’ve served already know you and are familiar with your work. They may know of other companies that could use your services.
5. Vendors/Suppliers. Your suppliers, similar to your clients. know what it’s like to do business with you. They also have a finger on the pulse of what’s happening in your industry because they are still servicing businesses.
6. Service Providers (accountants, banker, etc.). These people have their own vast network of contacts, so don’t overlook them and include them in your list of connections. You are their clients, therefore, they have an interest in helping you.
7. Other Fellow Volunteers. If you volunteer, you’ve likely build relationships with other volunteers and people within the organization. So include them in your list of connection. These people have seen you give your time and effort. The organization also appreciates the work you do for them.
As you cultivate your professional network, pay attention to the types of connections that you have. Where do you need to prioritize your networking time? Where do you need to expand your connections? What channels – professional associations, social media, directly reaching out – are most appropriate for who you need to meet.
This list of connections can make you or break you, so choose wisely!
If you’re ready to start building your Connections List and get connected to the right people constantly and consistently, check out this Practice How To within our SWITCH membership NOW!
