Judy Robinett

You may think that networking is about the old boys network only, meet to gain from others. You may think that gathering as much followers, friends, connections and likes on social media networks really make up your network. How strong are your networks? Can you call on your key contacts to help, guide, advise, and introduce? Dubbed as super-networker or the woman with the titanium Rolodex - though she's well-aware of modern variants such as Outlook, ConstantContact, LinkedIN and Twitter - has learned a lot in her 30+ years as venture capitalist, consultant and entrepreneur. She's learnt much too from Adam Grant's latest book Give & Take on the importance of giving.
Robinett divides her network in 5 critical connections (spouse and family), 50 vital connections with whom she's contact every month, and 100 important other contacts to be in contact with every quarter to a year. A total of around 150 relationships you're "only" able maintain over time, as Robin Dunbar proved in 1993. Out of the many "contacts" you have, you'll need to filter the relations you will nurture and pursue. Diversity in your network is important, so reach beyond colleagues, like minded and just family and friends. Add value to each contact. Share knowledge, connect people, show genuine engagement and attention, first give. Your authority as a resource, a connector of people will grow in time and pay off in the end. Robinett has lots of powerful stories of business won, relationships established and wonderful connections made, thanks to a severe system to manage her contacts.
The book contains practical insights on the usage of social media platforms, how to approach people in conferences or networking events, follow-up within 24 hours of each contact / request. Thanking people, offering help en seeding conversations with information about the other's interests and needs. Also important are the eagerness to learn from the other and simply asking who you should talk to. Great, practical for everyday use!… (plus d'informations)