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Networking is a skill that does not come naturally to everyone; people approach it with a
variety of attitudes and notions. Some think of networking as manipulative or too superficial.
Others are simply shy. In today’s dynamic universe where it is impossible for an individual to
keep up with everything, it is imperative to build your own social network. Building a
relationship based on trust and understanding is the cornerstone of developing a roster of
valuable contacts who could potentially be your clients, business partners, employers,
colleagues and even friends in the future. The strong connections made, can open numerous
hidden doors which would not have been possible otherwise.
1) Cultivate points of contact – If you just launched your start-up, your first and biggest
milestone is your first customer; he could be just ‘one person away’. Your level one
connection could potentially lead you to the right angel investor or supplier too. If you are
looking to do something of out of the box or want to join hands with a local startup that does
not visit your campus, then your network is your only way in. A strong network also means
easy access to quality co-founders and early employees. Remember, your campus will
only give you access to your immediate peers, that too for a limited period of time.
Thereafter, you are on your own.
2) Step out of your comfort zone – To build your own social network requires you to do
things that you might not do instinctively or naturally such as, talk to the person riding in the
elevator or strike a conversation with a stranger on the train. Loosen up, open your mind to
new ideas and do things that are seemingly out of the ordinary for you. It is good to challenge
yourself periodically. You will see a steep upward climb in your personal learning curve that
will stay with you forever. You only need to take the first step forward.
3) Learn from varied perspectives - Meet different people from various genres to grow your
own horizon and further your skill set. You are not a superhuman; you cannot possibly learn
everything worth knowing yourself. Harness the power of collective learning. Peer through
the lens of other people. People are your best source of information. Be a sponge and absorb.
4) Find quick solutions – A recent study mentioned that the 6 degrees of separation have now
gone to 5 degrees. You are that much closer to solving a looming problem through a
connection. The power of networks allows you to find experts in areas that might not be of
your core interest but they might be in the purview of someone you know well. What may be
an amateurish skill set for you will be someone else forte. Exercise that option and you will
find that the job gets done quicker, more precisely and with increased efficiency leaving you
with your optimum solution.
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5) Hone your human instincts – ‘Follow your instinct’ is phrase no one is alien to. The most
basic human instinct is to form bonds whether it is with family or friends. People possess an
innate quality to connect with others. This has been proven over civilisations. As emotional
creatures we are natually pre-disposed to building bonds. Consent to it. Allow yourself to be
swept in a natural tide. Don’t fight it.
I hope you apply my tips to strengthen your networking skills and become a master
networker
Vibha is the CEO and Founder of ReachIvy, a boutique educational advisory that helps aspiring
students get accepted into top ranked educational institutions globally.
Vibha holds an MBA from the Harvard Business School and a Bachelor of Science from Carnegie
Mellon University. She has also pursued courses at the University of California, Berkeley, the London
School of Economics and the Indian School of Business.
Vibha is the Co-President of the Harvard Club of Mumbai and is on the Carnegie Mellon Admissions
Council.
This material is the copyrighted property of ReachIvy, and cannot be replicated, reproduced or shared.
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