How to Build Up Your Personal Network

Whether you’re unemployed, looking to move up the food chain in your office, or own your own business, it’s important to continually work on building your personal network. Having a large network will open the doors to many different opportunities in the business world.

Here are some simple ways that you can more effectively build up your personal and personal network:

• Twitter, Facebook, and Other Social Media Tools. By now, pretty much everyone in business knows the benefit to having an active social media presence. Social media is an efficient way to interact with thought leaders, inform others of your capabilities, and establish yourself as an expert. Build lists of influential people in your industry and profession – and interact with them. ‘Like’ their posts, comment on their blogs, ask questions and offer solutions. Be mindful that these tools can be suck up an enormous amount of your valuable time, so be efficient. Limit your time, focus your efforts, and move on to other equally valuable networking opportunities.

• Find online groups. It’s amazing how many professionals join social networks like LinkedIn and don’t make use of the groups features. Facebook and LinkedIn in particular have specialty groups for just about every industry or profession specifically designed for idea sharing and networking. Active participation in these groups is an efficient way to both find new people to follow and network with and to build your own reputation as an expert in your field. As appropriate, offer your assistance and expertise to others. Most will reciprocate and willingly help you as well.

• Attend meet ups. Keep an eye on those online groups for information about meet ups, as well as websites like meetup.com. You can find meet ups for basically any type of business interest, or organize your own. These meet ups are great networking opportunities.

• Seek out new people at social events. Even if you’re not talking business at social gatherings, you never know when someone new you meet will need assistance with something related to your business or personal skills. Be open and friendly with everyone you meet, and make sure you’re approachable. If you sense a business opportunity, politely express your interest in following-up later at a more appropriate time.

Block out a few minutes every day for proactive networking. Make and pursue professional connections whenever you have the chance. With each new connection, you increase your own probability of finding success.

John J. Hall, CPA

John J. Hall, CPA, is an author, speaker and results expert who presents around the world at conventions, corporate meetings and association events.

Throughout his 35-year career as a business consultant, corporate executive and professional speaker, John has helped organizations and individuals achieve measurable results. He inspires audience members in corporations, not-for-profit organizations and professional associations to step up, take action and “do what you can.”