After suggesting repeatedly in my last post that you create your own networking plan I thought I'd share a little of my 2007 strategy with you.

Over the last several years I've literally met thousands of people in the Austin business community. However, just meeting someone and exchanging cards does NOT make them part of your network. So my own 'real' network consists of several hundred people.

I personally believe that I'm at a point that I will get the best return on my networking investment of time and money by focusing on deepening my existing relationships. Not that I will stop meeting new people or attending new events. But, I've built my personal network to a point that a lot of that happens automatically. My network continues to grow by itself as others in my network connect me with more and more great people.

When I say I'll be deepening my existing relationships I don't mean ALL of those relationships. First I'll focus on my core network. The total number is roughly a few dozen people who frankly I like a lot and who've made a difference in my life. They represent the quality portion of my network.

My core network is not a static list of folks. The dynamics of relationships change over time and some will come and others will go. That's half the fun.

Once the focus has been put squarely where it belongs comes the real meat of my own strategy. Making a difference in their lives. My job is to find ways to make a contribution to their success and the completion of their goals. Sometimes it'll be small contributions, other times I'll be able to make a huge impact. The important thing is to build the relationship by helping them. It's also important to help them help me. I have to be able to articulate what they can do for me. Relationships are bi-directional.

This strategy of focus, quality and contribution also applies to events. I will probably attend fewer events this year than I have in the past. I can get just as much if not more value by focusing on the events and organizations that have proven to provide me with the most benefit (quality). Then I'll again make a contribution by getting more involved in those organizations.

My hope is that by sharing some of my own strategies you'll have an easier time devising your own. So... What's YOUR 2007 networking strategy?

Happy Networking!

Scott Ingram
NetworkInAustin.com