TIN #085 - Old Flames, Unexpected Heroes: Networking with Strong and Weak Ties
The Power of Dormant Ties, The Strength of Weak Ties
Hey there, fellow Introverts!
It's Greg, your go-to guide in the often overwhelming world of networking.
This week, I stumbled upon a gem that sparked a ton of thoughts on what networking really means for us introverts.
Let's look at how we can navigate this journey, focusing on long-term success over immediate wins.
Before We Get Started:
My online course, “5 Steps To Grow Your Professional Network,” is FREE for all my newsletter subscribers. Learn the process I use everyday to grow my professional network.
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.
Understanding Your Ultimate Networking Goal
So, what's the endgame with your networking efforts?
It’s a question we rarely sit down to ponder, but it’s crucial to our networking strategy.
Inspired by the insights from The 20 Minute Networking Meeting by Marcia Ballinger and Nathan A. Perez, I've been reminded that networking isn't about the quick win—it's about setting the stage for future opportunities.
Networking = Long-term Goals, Not Instant Gratification
It's easy to get caught up in the hunt for that one key contact who we think will open all the doors for us.
But real networking magic happens over time, building connections that lead us gradually to our goals.
Rekindling Dormant Ties
Many of you have shared your struggles with me, feeling lost about who to connect with to make meaningful strides in your careers or businesses.
Here's where the concept of dormant ties comes into play—a strategy backed by a fascinating MIT study and one I've passionately advocated for in my past writings.
Dormant Ties = Untapped Gold Mines
These are people you already know but haven't been in touch with for a while.
Reaching out to reignite these connections often leads to surprisingly positive outcomes, mainly because these ties are based on established trust and mutual experiences.
The Strength of Weak Ties
Another MIT study throws a curveball, suggesting that while dormant ties are crucial, it's often the weak ties—those acquaintances or the friend-of-a-friend connections—that ultimately lead you to new opportunities.
Weak Ties = The Bridge to New Horizons
The beauty of networking lies in leveraging your dormant ties to bridge the gap to these weak ties, who are more likely positioned to introduce you to new opportunities.
Actionable Steps from The 20 Minute Networking Meeting
This book not only validated many concepts I've shared with you but also provides a concise, actionable framework for conducting effective networking meetings.
Prepare & Personalize: Make it easy and engaging for the person you're meeting with.
Mutual Benefit: Focus on how you can help them as much as they can help you.
Be Specific: Clearly articulate your goals and the kind of introductions you're seeking.
Looking Forward
The key takeaway?
Start with the connections you have, no matter how distant they seem.
These relationships are stepping stones to reaching those pivotal weak ties that can propel you towards your ultimate goals.
So, pick up The 20 Minute Networking Meeting, brush off your list of contacts, and start rekindling those dormant ties.
Remember, networking is a marathon, not a sprint.
Every conversation, every reconnected relationship, brings you one step closer to where you want to be.
Let's Get Connected
If you've found value in today's insights or have stories of your own to share, hit reply or reach out on LinkedIn.
Your journey, struggles, and successes inspire me to keep sharing and supporting our community of introverted networkers.
Until next time, keep forging those connections, and remember ABC - Always Be Connecting!
Before You Go…
Check out a couple of interesting finds I want to share with you this week:
My newest Medium article about how networking overcomes ageism
Christina Kohl has the answer to the question: Do stay-at-home moms have a network? You may be surprised by the answer.
Jesse Zulak (LinkedIn, Twitter) shared a great visual of the job application funnel. I added the red circle and text. That’s where networking can get you. Be sure to skip the line!
Good advice for introverted people as well as busy people.