How to develop a network of 100 contacts in 12 months
How to build a professional network of 100 contacts in a year: who to approach, how much time to give it each week and how to keep every contact.
Can you imagine building a professional network of 100 contacts in just one year, and using it to attract more potential clients?
Although it may seem like an ambitious goal, it is achievable with a method: know who to approach, set aside a fixed slot each week and keep every contact somewhere you can follow up.
The importance of professional networking
Networking gives you access to information and contacts you won't find online. Professional relationships are built over time, and collaborations and business come out of them.
An active network gives you "hot information" about needs and opportunities and brings you closer to the people who decide. It pays to start working on it from the beginning of your career or business: it is support and reputation in your field.
When to network
The best time to start networking is now. Don't wait until you urgently need to attract new clients. If you build relationships over time, when the moment comes your network will be ready to recommend you and help you find new opportunities. And connecting online through Google Meet, Zoom or LinkedIn is easy.
Who to network with
For it to work, diversify your contacts. Who it pays to reach out to:
- Potential clients: Identify and connect with people who could benefit from your products or services.
- Industry leaders: Influential professionals in your industry who can recommend you to others.
- Partners and suppliers: They also have their own networks that can be useful.
- Current and past clients: Maintain a good relationship with them; they can recommend you to others.
- Mentors and professional associations: Take part in mentoring programmes and join associations related to your field.
Who to avoid
- Negative people: Those who always see problems and not solutions.
- Direct competitors: Be careful not to share too much sensitive information.
- People with no mutual interest: If the other person shows no interest in staying in touch, it is better to focus on others.
Steps to generate 100 contacts in 1 year
- Set weekly goals: Connect with at least two new people every week.
- Use LinkedIn actively: Complete your profile, take part in interest groups and post relevant content.
- Attend events: Take part in seminars, webinars and conferences, whether virtual or in person.
- Ask for introductions: Ask your current contacts to introduce you to people in their network.
- Organise virtual meetings: Invite your new contacts to Zoom meetings or a virtual coffee.
- Stay in touch: Set aside time each week to send follow-up messages and maintain relationships.
- Get involved in collaborative projects: Take part in group projects, volunteering or any activity that lets you meet new people.
Lead2Team: your business card at events and meetings
Use Lead2Team's digital business cards so that every contact you make is saved and you can turn it into an opportunity.
When you attend networking events or trade fairs, take your Lead2Team Digital Card with you. You share your contact in seconds, with no paper cards.
The contacts you collect are stored in your dashboard, ready for you to follow up on the most promising opportunities.
Just do it
For those who feel introverted, networking may seem like a challenge. Don't wait until you feel motivated. Remember that networking is a two-way street: giving and receiving.
Dedicate 10 minutes a day, Monday to Thursday, to reaching out and maintaining relationships. With this routine you will have 104 new contacts in a year, above your goal.
Two companions to this routine: how to follow up on a contact that matters and 5 modern ways to organise your business cards.
Put it into practice with your team
Create your team's digital cards and share them in seconds, with full brand control.