Apparently I was a good boy this year, because Santa left me a very fun gift under the Christmas Tree — an iPad.
Yay!
I’m using it right now to write this post. Of course, the challenge is that it’s a completely new platform for me and not all of the tools that I’m used to using are available on this cool new tool. This means that I’m struggling a bit right now as I try to learn new techniques and adapt old ones. It’s difficult, but I think it will be worth it in the long run.
The same thing happens to us when we try out new techniques and systems in networking. We feel awkward and unsure of ourselves. We question whether it’s worth it. Basically we just have to force ourselves to do it until we get used to it. Eventually that does happen and soon it’s just like second nature for us.
Unfortunately, we just have to go through the rough part. Not much of a way around that.
So, what new networking habits would you like to adapt? Here are a few that I recommend if you aren’t doing them already.
- Establish a daily networking routine.
- Call two connections a day.
- Create a networking goal and practice it at every event you attend.
- Send out a thank you note or a Gratitude Note once a week.
- Practice asking INFER questions at every one-to-one coffee or lunch.
- Track your networking practice with a Networking Scorecard.
- Start a Tickler File and add a new name each day
- Volunteer for a networking group to which you currently belong
Remember, at first these behaviors are going to feel a little awkward. Keep forcing yourself to practice them, though, and soon you’ll be reaping the rewards of your efforts.
