The Networking Receipt

Similar to buying a product or service, the supplier usually gives a receipt to the consumer. Receipts are great for filing information later, getting confirmation of products and services, etc. Imagine if there was a networking receipt? A print out or email in which a networker receives after attending an event, making a connections, having a meeting etc. How would your networking receipt look like? How much value would it be worth? What would be the return or exchange policy on the back of the it?

Listed below are tips and strategies of making the most of your networking endeavor to create a healthy checks and balance system.

Date of Receipt

Pay close attention to the day and time of the event, meeting or connection that was made through your networking. Align the time with any proposed goals or targets towards your networking agenda. Make sure that you are creating valuable connections and utilizing your time wisely. Similar to a consumer’s receipt there is a limited time to return or exchange goods / services. Similar to networking, do not let a lot of time lapse before following up, making a connection or keeping a promise.

Value of Receipt

Do you place a value on your networking? is your networking fruitful and productive? Take inventory and monitor your networking behavior. Evaluate the interactions that you are making with other individuals and organizations. Make sure that what you are doing or saying is significant and worth everyone’s time. Another good idea is to get feedback and constructive criticism from members in your network and trusted advisers.

Hopefully these tips and strategies will keep you networking minded. It is important to have a goal and add value in your endeavors.