485 - The power of your network

How much time do you spend getting to know the people in your network?

If you're adding people but not connecting with them, you don't have a network, you have a meaningless list of random names.

Are you waiting for them to reach out to you? That's what they're doing too, so don't hold your breath.

The purpose of connecting with other business professionals is to do business.

What does that even mean, do business? Are you here to sell, to buy, to give away?

More importantly what are your intentions for giving to the people you meet?

Don't connect with someone because you are sure they will be your next client. Connect first with the intention of bringing them value.

Sometimes, there are special people you meet on LinkedIn, who you feel like you've known a long time.

@Cynthia Soared-Harfoush is one of those people I am happy to know.

Cynthia is a Certified Resume Writer, Professional Branding Expert who lives in Dubai, UAE.

Her writing skills also cover resume review, content strategy, copywriting, editing, and more!!

Cynthia has a keen way with words! She is articulate, well read and intuitive.

She has lived and traveled all over the world, including in the US and China, and she loves people and cultures as much as I do.

We became friends almost immediately, despite our age difference. Age, culture, religious affiliations, political leanings don't matter. We have great conversations and help each other on LinkedIn whenever possible.

Building professional relationships has made all the difference for me on LinkedIn. And, I'm happy for the ones who become friends as well.

Some people say they don't have time for this on LinkedIn. They aren't building a network; they're aimlessly adding names to a virtual list, like gathering business cards at a networking event.

If you don't have time to get to know your connections, why should they do business with you or send you referrals? They don't know you.

Strengthen engagement by liking and commenting on posts. Tag others on a post you think could benefit them (not only your own posts🙄...Did I really need to say that?)

Share posts in a private message so they can take a look.

For now, reach out and connect with @Cynthia Soares-Harfoush. You will have a valuable networking partner.

Who would you like to introduce us to today?