Hey, fellow learner.
“Your network is your net worth,” said Tim Sanders.
You and I both know that networks matter. But I used to feel icky about networking. I’ve asked myself, “where’s the line between being intentional and being calculating?”
In the Stanford MBA program, however, I’ve learned to see networking as the generous act of helping others.
I’ve also learned to think about my network strategically.
Here’s how to build your network with the same intention:
How to build your network strategically
1. Write down your goals
Bring out a notebook. Write down your goals for this year and the coming years.
Dream big.
2. Assess your current network
Which groups are you connected with? Write it down.
For example, I’m plugged into:
The MIT class of 2016
The Stanford MBA network
The ex-McKinsey group in Norway
…and so on
Then ask yourself:
Do any parts of your network differentiate you? If you know an unusual combination of people, it could be a competitive advantage for you. My own example: Few in Norway are also connected to the Stanford MBA network, and I could serve as a bridge.
Where is your network weak, relative to your goals?
How diverse is your network? If your network is homogenous, where the people you know also know each other, you don’t get as many second-degree connections.
Now, how could you double down on differentiators? Or increase the diversity of your network?
In other words, which groups do you want to know better?
3. List who you want to know
Ask yourself: Who specifically can help you reach your goals?
For example:
If you have a dream job in mind, are there people at that organization who could help you get it?
If you want to get promoted, who makes those decisions? Who else needs to speak warmly of you?
If you want to start a company, which investors do you want to raise money from? Which customers do you want? Who in media can help you get press coverage?
Based on this, write down 20+ people who’d be helpful to know.
4. Make the time to connect
Find ways to connect with the people you listed.
“How will I have time to get to know these people?” you might be wondering.
Well… Remember that you don’t need to know each person deeply. Weak ties are powerful.
Traditionally, I’ve invested in a small set of close relationships, because I find it meaningful. But remembering the value of weak ties, I’m making an effort to expand.
Attend a few extra events where you’ll run into new people. Say yes to a stranger reaching out asking for advice. Send that email to one of the 20 people you listed..
Time spent connecting is time well spent.
On another note
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Check out previous posts of Learn With Kat. I’m always happy to hear from you.
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