Eleven tips for successful networking

Once consejos para un networking exitoso

Eleven tips for successful networking

SALA DE PRENSA

Mar 21, 2025

Inspired by naive networking by Jeff Sandefer .

The first rule of networking is to put yourself in the other person's shoes. Reframe your idea of networking . Instead of thinking only about what you need, look at it from a service perspective. Focus on what you can contribute and think, "I have something valuable to offer the world, and with a little support, I can make my dream a reality."

Don't expect the world to revolve around you and your needs; identify where you can contribute and follow these eleven rules for networking :

Put yourself in the other person's shoes. Ask yourself: Why would the person you want to connect with want to talk to you? How can you make the interaction easier for them? How can you make the meeting enjoyable and educational?
Do your homework first. Reflect on your purpose: Why are you seeking out this particular person, in this specific role, and within this specific industry? The clearer your reason for wanting to meet this person, and the more you know about them, the more powerful your interaction will be.
Be specific about what you need. Make sure the other person understands how a small effort on their part can make a big difference in your life. If you can't explain what you need in a few words, you probably don't need the meeting.
Make it easy for others. Don't ask for lunch if a brief meeting will suffice.

Don't ask for a brief meeting if a phone call will suffice. If an email is enough, skip the phone call.

Don't insist. If the person you're contacting isn't interested, drop it. Instead, ask if they can recommend someone else you could talk to or some relevant reading material. Perseverance is a valuable virtue when pursuing a meaningful goal, but insisting on a pointless, empty meeting is not.
Send a list of questions about the topic you're interested in before the meeting. This will help establish a clear agenda and demonstrate that you've done your research.
Come prepared. Thoroughly research the person and company you're meeting with. This will allow you to make the most of the conversation and demonstrate your interest.
Ask questions. Your primary goal is to build rapport. Use the conversation to learn about the other person. When you understand them and they perceive your sincerity (especially if you share their industry), they'll be more likely to see you as a younger version of themselves and be more willing to collaborate with you.
Offer something unexpected in return. Volunteer at their favorite charity and promise to help someone like you in the future. Being willing to give without being asked is a sign of maturity and character—exactly what you're working towards to build strong relationships.
Be kind to the gatekeepers . Remember that executive assistants manage much of the day-to-day operations of most companies. Instead of seeing them as a barrier, consider them a valuable resource, as they can provide you with key information about the company or entrepreneur you wish to connect with.
Follow up. Always, always, always write a thank-you note, preferably handwritten. Express your gratitude and tell the person you connected with how their advice or recommendation was helpful.

A meeting might make sense, or it might not. If you decide to go that route, apply these eleven tips and do your best to make the interaction valuable for both parties.

Schedule face-to-face meetings with entrepreneurs only when there's a concrete action you can take, one that requires minimal time and effort but will make a significant difference in your life. Above all, remember that networking isn't just about you. People will support you if they sense you're on a vital mission to help others and have the character and determination to make a difference.

This column was provided by UFM Acton MBA in Entrepreneurship , a unique master's program specializing in business and entrepreneurship, offered at Francisco Marroquín University. During this program, successful entrepreneurs and business leaders passionately share their knowledge and experience, allowing students to witness firsthand each stage of the entrepreneurial process.