Do you know you the biggest mistake people make in professional networking?
They don’t start or end a call or email with this question.
It is the foundation for building networking relationships.
(lead-in)
The biggest mistake you can make in networking is to think it is all about what you need. For most people, the only time they give networking any serious attention is when they need a new job. By then it is too late.
To succeed start every call, meeting, or digital interaction with a variation of this theme: “What can I do to help you?” If your conversation is longer than just a brief exchange, always end by asking, “Before I go, is there anything else I can do for you?”
By focusing on your contact, not yourself, you significantly increase the likelihood of developing a relationship that will refer you for employment.