"What's a simple way to remember the many of the steps of Networking" is a question that I am often asked. Like anything in life, there are many ways to accomplish your goals. Here is my acronym that puts many of the suggestions into an easy to remember reminder:
N.E.T.W.O.R.K.I.N.G.
N-Names -remember them Needs-focus on the other
person; Nurture the relationship
E- Evolution-it is a process; Engage with and Empower
others; Execute the skills; Ears are meant to listen with
T- Time is what it takes to do this well; Trust- has to be established; Talk less, listen more
W-Work-is what it takes; Write notes to stay in touch
O- Organization will make the process easier; Opportunity with everyone you meet; Open Ended Questions are what to ask
R- Rapport-establish first; Respect -everyone deserves it; Resilient-keep your skin thick and bounce back; Relationships develop over time
K- Knowledge is power; Kindness to everyone. My wonderful Dad always said-"Give everyone a smile and handshake'
I- Interest with those you meet; Initiative-take it or you'll wait forever; Integrity-without it, forget everything else. This is Key
N- Nurture your relationships
G- Goals-always set them for networking; Give to others; Gracious with our time- give it and it comes back