Smarter Networking

That business card lying on your desk that you got from another woman business owner can help you grow your company and meet those dream goals. You already know that networking is essential to your career. Need help connecting effectively?

“Networking is not a onetime event,” says Marshawn Evans, author of SKIRTS in the Boardroom. “It’s not about ‘who you know,’ but how well you know who you know.”

She says the real key to strategic networking is being able to listen to the needs of others and share information about your brand accordingly.

When networking, Evans says always determine the value you bring to others before asking for their help. It will make you more memorable and even if one person can’t help you, everyone you meet has the potential to lead you to your target.

Wondering how to turn those Twitter followers into real business relationships? Sites like TwitterLocal, localtweeps and Twellow can help you find like-minded individuals in your area – and grow your network.

This BusinessWeek article reminds us to respect people’s time, have manners and be authentic – everyone is looking for genuine relationships.

Bonus PINK Link: Social networks can be overwhelming. Here are seven ways to use LinkedIn for smart networking.

Minute Mentor: On this PINK TV segment, a top woman at Holiday Inn tells why networking is the most important thing you can do for your career – and how to do it right.

By Muriel Vega

“In business you get what you want by
giving other people what they want.” Alice Macdougall