Beyond business cards and LinkedIn invitations lies the true art of networking: forging genuine relationships. When done right, networking can open doors to partnerships, funding, media opportunities, and even new markets.

Key Points:

1. Quality Over Quantity: Instead of collecting every business card at an event, focus on three or four people you genuinely want to know. Ask thoughtful questions: “What’s the biggest challenge your company faces right now?” or “How did you break into this industry?”

2. Consistent Follow-Up: Within 48 hours of meeting, send a personalized LinkedIn request or quick “Nice meeting you” email. Mention something specific from your conversation to jog their memory.

3. Attend Targeted Events: Choose industry conferences, local chamber meetups, or accelerated-growth workshops where your “ideal client” or “ideal partner” is likely to be. Don’t just collect contacts—look for mutual areas of expertise or collaboration.

Action Steps:

– Create a simple spreadsheet to track new contacts: name, company, event, date met, and a “next step” (e.g., coffee, phone call, LinkedIn intro).

– Set a calendar reminder to follow up (or catch up) every month—don’t let good connections go cold.

– Volunteer to speak on small panels or host a roundtable—giving yourself a platform helps others remember you.