One of the biggest challenges with any networking is “following up.” In my financial planning practice, I was out networking weekly. I had a system to keep track of the new people I met, then follow up with an email to schedule a short meeting. However, maintaining a meaningful relationship takes work. Today, I am much more selective about who I want as “friends” beyond the networking as a transaction. 

For example, in my recent job search process, I came across someone high up in a higher education institution. Let’s call her Cindy. We hit it off so well during a group meeting. It’s like an old friend finally reunited. We exchanged cell numbers immediately. I reached out to Cindy last week and asked for a “friend” request. We agree to meet monthly for an hour. We are scheduled to meet in the first week of April. Cindy told me, no one had asked a “friend” request this way. I can’t wait to get to know her more. 

I believe in giving first before asking for anything. However, I am selected about turning my network into friends. I often rely on industry meetings such as conferences to meet new people. That being said, I establish a network within the workplace as well. I got to know so many good people at my current job. Again, I am very selective about who to keep as friends. Friends are forever, and networks are temporary relationships.