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Step 1
First step is to create business cards for yourself. Business cards are an important communication tool that remains with your contact long after you have gone. Business cards can be purchased or can be made on your home computer. Purchased business cards allows you to obtain professional looking business cards in any quantity you need. Home made business cards may not be as professional looking and usually come in smaller quantities.
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Step 2
Next is to carry the business cards everywhere you go. Keep business cards in your wallet, portfolio, jacket, automobile, etc. Carrying the business cards in multiple locations ensures you have easy access to your business cards whenever you need them.
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Step 3
Finally, pass a business card to everyone you meet. Handing someone your business card usually takes place after you feel comfortable with the person, having talked with them, and recognizing that a future connection opportunity may exist.
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Step 4
Collect a business card from everyone you meet. Sometimes if you ask first for a business card then the other person will ask for your business card. If the other person does not have business cards then use the back of yours to write their contact information.
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Step 5
Maintain all of the business cards you collect in one location. One method is to hold them in a rolodex. Another method is to type the information in to your computer (ie, Outlook contacts).
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Step 6
Maintain contact with your network of contacts. Start off slow by sending an email on a regular basis. Email is easy, convenient and quick. Then move to phone calls. Have a plan on what you what to discuss. People are busy and may not always want to chat about nothing. Finally, move into meeting in person for lunch meetings, coffee breaks, etc. Face to face meetings help strengthen the relationship.
Comments
motherearth said
on 6/11/2009 Building a network of contacts is a good idea--especially with the shaky job market right now. Good information!