vBUILD A REPUTATION.

Every
fruitful reputation is based on trust. Certain connections are absolutely
impossible to make until a very high level of trust and reputation is
established. In a professional setting, people prefer to build business
relationships with people they see as being valuable. By building a reputation
as someone who is talented, helpful, and valuable, people will be more
motivated to meet you and stay in touch with you.

vTHINK LONG-TERM.

Every
relationship becomes more valuable with time. Hence, it is important not to be
too desperate and quick to seek results when building a relationship. Connections
is said to open doors, but relationships close deals. Networking is not just
about exchanging business cards and connecting on LinkedIn. Networking is most
valuable when long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationships are formed.
Relationships take time to build. Be patient. Stay in touch with people you
like

vFOLLOW UP

There
are two main reasons for the importance of following up: 1) Networking only
produces good results when it is followed up. 2) Following up with contacts
builds trust, reputation, and relationships.

Build
a reputation as someone who delivers on their promises and is persistent.
Follow up with people who promised to do something for you or vice-versa.
Follow up on emails you send that get ignored. Do what you promised to do for
others.

vBE HELPFUL.

Always
priorities helping and giving to others ahead of taking and receiving for
yourself. When you help people in your network get stronger, you get stronger.

Always
be willing to share your expertise and ideas.it Promote your networks and
accomplishments. Be a connector. Business transactions are always mutually
beneficial. One person is buying a product or service because it will benefit
them in some way, and one person is selling a product or service because they
can profit.

vAsk

It
is always said that the one who ask never loses his ways just as you will never
know until you ask, learn to make relevant enquiry by asking the right question
Ask people you want to meet up with you and also ask for advice.

vListen

Listening
is one of the most valuable, yet commonly overlooked, skills to have in
networking and in business. People love to talk about themselves and appreciate
when you take a genuine interest in what they have to stay. Listening will help
you to get to learn about peoples’ challenges and get to know them better,
which can ultimately lead to more productive professional relationships. Ask
open-ended questions, be genuinely interested, and express interest and
curiosity.