How Do You Differentiate Yourself While Networking?

What can you do to distinguish yourself from your peers when networking?

This is a good question.

You want to stand out and be memorable. For the right reasons, of course! So, how do you do that?

There’s an exercise I’m now in the habit of doing that I found has improved my relationships. It’s something simple, but not done by many. Which helps set me apart from others.

Here’s what I do:

For each meeting or event I attend, I set a goal to be a valuable resource to a minimum of two people.

And guess what? The irony is… I typically walk away with a much higher number.

It’s what building connections is all about: providing benefits. And the sooner you determine the value you can provide the faster you lay the foundation for long-term relationships.

As I’m having discussions at these meetings I’m also ascertaining:

• What can I do to provide something of value?
• Are they working on a project that one of my contacts happens to be an expert in and can facilitate an introduction?
• Can I offer advice on a certain subject matter or initiative that they’re currently involved with?
• If they’re looking for a new job can I personally connect them with a recruiter who can help?
• Is there a job opening at their company that I can recommend someone from my networks for?
• Did I recently read an insightful article about current trends in their industry that I can share with them?

Once I determine exactly what I can offer, I do it. As I said it’s a simple gesture, but few people think about it. And doing so will help you stand out.

Not only is providing value a rewarding feeling, but it’s also human nature to attempt to reciprocate. Even if the other person is unable to provide something in return immediately, you never know what opportunities are waiting for you down the road!

It’s good to be remembered as the person who goes above and beyond and has earned the trust of others. And being a valuable resource will accomplish this.

Here are more examples of what you can do that will differentiate you and put you on the right path toward reaching your networking goals:

Be genuine and sincere

Never lie about anything or promise something you can’t deliver; the truth always comes out! Be honest and forthcoming with others and this will help you form beneficial connections.

Follow up and follow through

Not everyone does this. And when you send a follow-up thank you note after a conversation or follow through on setting up that coffee meeting to discuss a specific project you separate yourself from the pack.

Learn what networking really means

Discover how networking is about transcending connections into meaningful relationships and something you need to do consistently.

Understand the advantages of your networks

And the many ways it enhances your career, increases your knowledge, and improves your business.

Present a positive attitude

The approach you take towards nurturing your relationships will determine the opportunities presented to you. It’ll be a much better experience if you focus on developing a networking mindset with the right perspective.

Few people understand what relationship-building is truly about. It’s viewed as something dirty. Or something you need to do to get a job, make a sale, or build the numbers on your contact list. But when you realize it’s more about creating a mutually beneficial connection with others, you’ll be rewarded with influential networks of people who will greatly impact your life.

See original post on Quora