There are apps and software for everything these days, and considering I design websites for a living, it might seem odd that the first thing I suggest is creating a physical, paper-based system for your networking.
The idea of a networking folder came to me toward the end of writing my original book, Beyond the Comfort Zone. The goal is to have a tangible focal point for your activities and record-keeping, reminding you that effective networking happens in ‘Real Life,’ not just online.
Your Networking Folder
As you can see from the picture, my folder is bright red with a custom-designed cover and spine. You don’t have to go this far; the content is more important than the cover. However, I’ve included a couple of graphics in this section that you can download and use if you wish.
In addition to the folder, you’ll need a set of dividers to organize the material you create into relevant sections.
The main categories in my folder are:
Recon Meetings
1-Minute Presentations
10-Minute Presentation Ideas
Referral Tracking
Other Stuff
As you progress through this course, you’ll see that Recon Meetings should be the cornerstone of your networking educational activity.
Regular and effective Recon Meetings are the single most impactful use of your time as a networker. They help you gather and give information that makes it easier for you and your group members to find referrals for each other.
Organizing Your Folder
Create a Recon Record every time you meet with a fellow group member and keep it in your networking folder. Having a printout of your presentation plan and past presentations will ensure you make the most of your one-minute presentations at meetings. Many people waste this time, and time is the one thing you can’t get back.
Using a sheet of paper to read your presentation is often more effective than squinting at a mobile phone screen or waving a tablet around while speaking.
Keeping a written and visible record of the referrals you’ve given will help you see who you’re helping most and who you might need to focus on more. You can also track who has passed referrals to you, allowing you to express your gratitude appropriately.
Additional Tips
Keep a supply of blank forms and tracking sheets in your folder, as well as spare business cards and brochures to maintain stock for your networking meetings.
While mobile phones and apps like refur.com make it easy to pass referrals quickly, a Networking Folder helps you maintain a real focus on your networking activities. Every day, during a coffee break, you can flip through it to remind yourself of tasks to do or members to call for booking Recon Meetings.
Module Actions
Create your Networking Folder.