We all need to create three bucket lists in order to truly network with purpose. The first bucket contains a list of all your current connections. We are all connected to far more people than we realize. If you were to take 10 minutes and write a list of past and current work colleagues, industry contacts, friends, family and social acquaintances, you’ll likely be surprised at how long a list you have.
Ask yourself the following questions about the people on this list:
· Who are they?
· What have you done for them?
· What have they done for you?
· What are you going to do to keep them?
Your next list is people you want to make connections with soon. Ask yourself the following questions about these people:
· Who are they?
· What can you do to attract them?
· What do you want from them?
· How will you connect with them?
The final list is people you hope to connect with in the future. Ask yourself the following questions about the people in this bucket:
· Who are they?
· What can you do to attract them?
· What do you want from them?
· How will you get in front of them?
· How will you connect with them?
The thing to keep in mind as you answer these questions for each name in each bucket is that the more you do for them, the more they will do for you. The more you do for them, the more important you will be in their life. The more likely they will be to take your call. The more likely they will be to meet with you. Why? Because you have brought them value in the past. So the emphasis has to be on what you can do for them… NOT what they can do for you.
Value Based Networking is all about your willingness to give value first. It’s the process of creating and actively maintaining relationships where you can help others achieve their goals and they can help you achieve yours. Value Based Networking involves determining your networking purpose, defining possible contacts, developing a plan of action and committing the time and energy necessary to produce meaningful results.
Now take your top ten contacts, maybe five from bucket one, three from bucket two and two from bucket three, and write one action item next to each name with a deadline to complete that action within the month. The action can be just about anything – send them an email, write them a letter, give them a call, or set up a lunch or meeting. Ask them about a trip they took recently or a conference they attended; send them an article or book you think they would enjoy; introduce them to a contact of yours. But whatever it is, focus on providing value to them.
If you do this each and every month, you’ll have made 120 meaningful value based connections over the next year. Now that’s meaningful!
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The Balanced WorkLife Company is dedicated to helping the best get better while they enjoy the journey. Our programs give you access to tools and methodologies that allow you to break through the barriers and achieve your goals while also helping you enjoy a balance between and within your job, your career and your personal life. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting your career, the Balanced WorkLife Company can help you achieve your ultimate potential. To learn more, visit www.balancedworklife.com and download our free report “The 16 Most Common Networking Mistakes to Avoid,” which is jam-packed with information to help you develop and build long-lasting business and social relationships. 
