Great question, I need to write a post about this!
If it’s a totally cold contact then I probably wouldn’t email them straight away, I think it’s important to warm them up and establish a connection online (probably LinkedIn if it’s in a a professional setting).
Add them on LinkedIn with a nice personal message. Over the next few weeks comment on their posts, start a conversation in the DMs etc. Think about ways you can offer value (eg. industry insights or a connection).
Then I’d go in for an email pitching for a coffee or virtual catch up, and I’d tailor the copy for that person so it doesn’t feel generic.
It’s a slow process, but building a strong network takes time ❤️
Absolutely loved this read! As someone who is actively trying to expand my professional network, this all resonated so well. Keen to know if you have any tips for effectively connecting with people on LinkedIn?
I find the best way to connect with people on LinkedIn is to first engage with them for a week or two (commenting on their posts etc.) and once we’ve connected that way, to slide into the DMs with a hi! In the DMs I keep it pretty organic and casual, and build a conversation off the back of something they’ve posted or shared. It never fails!
Love this Anna! I have actually been reflecting a little on this topic lately! Just how important relationships are to any career! Most of my favourite projects have come across through people I have met for some other reason other than work and then they have gone on and mentioned me to others. As someone who is often introverted, I know this is an area I need to work on more!! I have come to realise that I think no matter how talented someone is, you are really only as good as your ability to network and build authentic relationships. I guess it all comes back to trust, something good relationships naturally build!
Couldn't agree more Mel! And to be honest, I think that great relationships can be built even if you're an introvert. Networking doesn't need to look like going to big events and making small talk with people, some of the best and most genuine professional relationships I've built have been through having great chats via LinkedIn DM. An introvert's paradise!
Yes you are so right! I often reach out to people this way but then sometimes I feel like “ oh am I being annoying 😂 I dislike when those voices creep in. Most of the time I just go for it but yea sometimes I get shy even on socials!! 😂
Another inspiring piece, Anna - thank you. I’m deep into CliftonStrengths at the moment and keen to know what your Top 5 are (if you know). Is Relator up there?
I haven’t done that particular strengths test but I’ve done the VIA one before - from memory my top couple were curiosity and love of learning. I might give Clifton Strengths a go and report back!
I could not agree more! As a self-proclaimed Professional Friend-Maker, these recommendations all feel like second nature, but I'm fully aware of how many people never think to do a single one of them. I believe the would would be a significantly better place if we all made even just a little bit more effort to connect more intentionally with one another, so thank you for making it seem so straightforward.
And I couldn't agree more, it's the intentional and deliberate practice of building relationships that pays off (for both parties), rather than being transactional about it.
Do you have any other hot tips that I should have added?
love!! tips on the first cold email? what's the hook that gets them?
Great question, I need to write a post about this!
If it’s a totally cold contact then I probably wouldn’t email them straight away, I think it’s important to warm them up and establish a connection online (probably LinkedIn if it’s in a a professional setting).
Add them on LinkedIn with a nice personal message. Over the next few weeks comment on their posts, start a conversation in the DMs etc. Think about ways you can offer value (eg. industry insights or a connection).
Then I’d go in for an email pitching for a coffee or virtual catch up, and I’d tailor the copy for that person so it doesn’t feel generic.
It’s a slow process, but building a strong network takes time ❤️
Absolutely loved this read! As someone who is actively trying to expand my professional network, this all resonated so well. Keen to know if you have any tips for effectively connecting with people on LinkedIn?
I find the best way to connect with people on LinkedIn is to first engage with them for a week or two (commenting on their posts etc.) and once we’ve connected that way, to slide into the DMs with a hi! In the DMs I keep it pretty organic and casual, and build a conversation off the back of something they’ve posted or shared. It never fails!
Love this Anna! I have actually been reflecting a little on this topic lately! Just how important relationships are to any career! Most of my favourite projects have come across through people I have met for some other reason other than work and then they have gone on and mentioned me to others. As someone who is often introverted, I know this is an area I need to work on more!! I have come to realise that I think no matter how talented someone is, you are really only as good as your ability to network and build authentic relationships. I guess it all comes back to trust, something good relationships naturally build!
Couldn't agree more Mel! And to be honest, I think that great relationships can be built even if you're an introvert. Networking doesn't need to look like going to big events and making small talk with people, some of the best and most genuine professional relationships I've built have been through having great chats via LinkedIn DM. An introvert's paradise!
Yes you are so right! I often reach out to people this way but then sometimes I feel like “ oh am I being annoying 😂 I dislike when those voices creep in. Most of the time I just go for it but yea sometimes I get shy even on socials!! 😂
Another inspiring piece, Anna - thank you. I’m deep into CliftonStrengths at the moment and keen to know what your Top 5 are (if you know). Is Relator up there?
I haven’t done that particular strengths test but I’ve done the VIA one before - from memory my top couple were curiosity and love of learning. I might give Clifton Strengths a go and report back!
I love VIA as well. Let me know if you delve into CliftonStrengths, it’s fascinating!
Number 3, point three. ❤️🔥
This is what it's all about x
I could not agree more! As a self-proclaimed Professional Friend-Maker, these recommendations all feel like second nature, but I'm fully aware of how many people never think to do a single one of them. I believe the would would be a significantly better place if we all made even just a little bit more effort to connect more intentionally with one another, so thank you for making it seem so straightforward.
Professional Friend-Maker...I love that!
And I couldn't agree more, it's the intentional and deliberate practice of building relationships that pays off (for both parties), rather than being transactional about it.
Do you have any other hot tips that I should have added?