TIN #070 - How to Use ChatGPT for Effective Networking: A Step-by-Step Guide
Revolutionize Your Networking Approach with AI
Hey there fellow introverts!
On November 30th, 2023, ChatGPT turned one years old.
A lot has changed in the first year, and a lot of new uses for Generative AI have been explored.
In this issue we're taking a look at how ChatGPT can revolutionize your networking skills.
Let's explore its capabilities and how it can enhance your networking strategies!
This issue takes about 4 minutes to read.
But Before We Get Started…
Each week, I post a new podcast with tips you’ll find in the weekly newsletter and bonus stories, wisdom, and motivation. The Introverted Networker podcast is like the weekly newsletter but with additional narration and thoughts from me. Be sure to listen to this week’s podcast and check out the previous episodes of the podcast as well.
The video version of the podcast is available on my YouTube channel.
ChatGPT: Your Networking Sidekick
ChatGPT is an amazing brainstorming tool.
When you're unsure about initiating conversations or writing messages, it offers a variety of ideas.
Its strength lies in breaking down mental barriers and providing a starting point, which is often the hardest part of networking.
However, I want to be clear: You should never simply Copy→Paste the responses from ChatGPT.
Always review what it writes and adjust it to fit your personality and style.
If you don’t already have an account, go to OpenAI. You’ll need to sign up with an email address, but that’s all it takes.
You need the free version (3.5) to try out each of the three examples I’m going to share:
Crafting the Perfect Introduction
Reaching Out to Old Connections
Fueling Meaningful Conversations
Let’s take a look at each one!
Crafting The Perfect Introduction
When you meet someone, the "What do you do?" question can be daunting.
I talked about crafting your introduction back in TIN #044.
I asked ChatGPT to help me create an introduction using Clay Hebert’s formula:
“I do X for Y.”
Here’s what I asked it to do:
I told ChatGPT how I wanted it to act in the first prompt. This helps set the context and will give you better answers.
Then I asked it to write an introduction for me in the “I do X for Y” format, and I asked it to ask me for X and for Y.
Here’s my response and the answer I received:
ChatGPT helps craft responses that are not only clear but also engaging.
For instance, it helped me refine my introduction to be concise yet informative, focusing on my role and the audience I serve.
This approach not only answers the question but also opens doors for further discussion, an essential aspect of effective networking.
Reaching Out To Old Connections
My regular readers know I always tell people to start networking with people they already know.
I call this “Reconnecting,” and I believe this is a lower risk way of networking, especially when you’re starting out.
However, many people ask me, “What do I say to these people I am reconnecting with?”
ChatGPT's ability to generate warm, professional messages is a lifesaver.
Here’s what I asked and the response:
It provided a template that was personal yet respectful, perfect for rekindling professional relationships.
The AI-suggested script is a great balance between friendliness and professionalism, encouraging a positive response.
Remember, this is a place to start, you can always edit to fit your style.
Fueling Meaningful Conversations
Once you Reconnect with someone, you’ll want to have a voice-to-voice conversation. Even though this is a conversation with someone you know, many people still ask me:
“What should we talk about?”
My response is: “Ask the other person about themselves.”
But, some people still struggle with how to do this.
So, I asked ChatGPT to give me some strong conversation starters.
ChatGPT excels in suggesting thoughtful, open-ended questions that invite detailed responses.
It’s like having a cheat sheet of conversation starters tailored to your contact's interests, ensuring the dialogue is both enjoyable and meaningful.
Your Thoughts and Experiences
I'm curious about your experiences with AI in networking.
How has ChatGPT or similar tools helped you overcome networking challenges?
Your insights could inspire others and offer new perspectives on using technology in professional settings.
These AI-generated scripts are just the beginning.
Customize them to reflect your personality and the unique dynamics of each interaction.
Networking is about authenticity, and ChatGPT is here to help you find your voice.
Have a great week!
See you next time,
Greg
Weekly Tidbits
Throughout the week, I find interesting things. I love sharing them with my readers. Here’s what I’m loving this week.
I started reading, “How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen,” by David Brooks. It’s about how to talk to people to create connection. Perfect for those of us who struggle to talk to others in a meaningful way.
I saw this LinkedIn post last minute before publishing the newsletter this week and wanted to share it since it talks about my topic about. Sahil Bloom shares how he starts and develops conversations with others.