Let Spring inspire you to cultivate your relationships
By Annette Richmond
Spring is here. How is your network growing?
The signs of Spring are everywhere. Daffodils are poking their heads through the ground. As I look out the window, I see the first blooms on our forsythia bush. After a long cold winter, particularly for us in the Northeast, gardens everywhere are beginning to grow.
If you've been hibernating all winter now is a good time to reconnect with your network. Like all living things, relationships need to be tended on a regular basis.
Unfortunately, most people scroll through their contact list only when they need something. Bad idea. Think about it. Who would you be more likely to help: the person you haven't heard from in three years or the one you had lunch with three months ago?
Start pulling the weeds out of your Palm® today. Make a list of friends and colleagues you haven't seen for awhile. Remember, the time to cultivate your network is now, not when you need a favor. Here are four ways to get started.
Mix & Mingle
Get a copy of your local paper and find two networking events to attend this month. Check out an association in your field; investigate one of the many business groups for women. Go early enough to spend some time mingling before the speaker starts. And make sure you spend at least part of the evening with people you don't know.
Socialize Smart
Spring is the start of the social season. Over the next six months our calendars will be filled with everything from weddings to barbecues to company picnics. At the next event spend some time away from your partner. Try to chat with at least one or two new people. Social occasions aren't the place to pass out your business cards just be open to meeting a new friend or two.
Reconnect
It's time to dust off your rolodex or Palm. Go though your contacts and reach out to ten people you haven't connected with in the last six months or more. Email five, call five and arrange to meet one old friend or colleague for lunch. Do this every month and you'll stay in touch with 120 people every year.
Give First
Help a new relationship blossom with this philosophy: Give before you get. And, this doesn't mean your business card or sales materials. Send her an interesting article. Pass on a piece of helpful information. Although it shouldn't be your goal, you'll be surprised how little gestures will find their way back to you.
Let Spring inspire you to plant some seeds. Once they begin growing, tend your relationships with care and consistency. Cultivate your network today and it will be there to nurture you tomorrow.
© Copyright 2005 Annette Richmond All rights reserved.
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