A little while back I posted about how to network, I just wanted to share a couple of other thoughts on the two things that have really helped make me more effective at networking, asking for referrals and connecting individual. These two things are probably the biggest game changers in how I have networked since I started working.
Referrals are a gold mine and a great way to diversify your connections. If you look at the people in your network, more likely than not you can break it into three main groups. First, are people from your school including alumni; if you are still in school, a recent grad or getting an MBA this is probably by far and away the largest bucket. After that, you have people from industry whether that be colleagues, former co-workers, allied professionals or people that you met at conferences or industry events. The last bucket is personal connections, people you know from the bar, the gym, family, friends and family friends.
Getting referrals lets you add people from beyond the school bubble. Every time you have a networking conversation, ask is there anyone else that I should speak to. It really is that simple. Most people don't do it though. The beauty of a referral is that it is a warm introduction. You've in effect got the contact to vouch for you. Make sure to use the referring individual's name in the email subject, e.g. Jim Smith suggested I reach out.
The other technique is serving as a connector. Classic case in point, I knew an alumni working as an associate at a lower MM PE shop, his role included deal sourcing. He had been in industry pre-MBA so I connected him with an MD at a middle market bank. It worked out well for both parties, the banker has someone he can pitch to and the associate gets to see more CIMs come across his desk. Connecting people like that serves to help deepen your relationship with both people. This takes little effort, but is immensely valuable.
