You will get out of LinkedIn what you put into it (like so many other things), thus mine are:

1) The best way to increase business by using LinkedIn is to actually participate and join the community, connecting to people, making regular and pertinent posts, answers and comments, connecting WITH people who would make good customers.

2) One should not expect overnight results from any networking effort like LinkedIn any more than attending a Chamber of Commerce meeting and expecting new orders to flow in. Networking takes TIME and EFFORT on your part. Trust is gained over time through observation of your actions and reactions.

I enjoy using this Q&A area and have learned lots and contributed where I can. This has helped me grow my network when someone feels we have a mutual bond.

3) Give networking time and effort to be successful - it won't work without work from YOU!

ENJOY!!

posted July 7, 2008

Hello Cristina:

Interesting question. For online networking, and purely off the top of my head, I offer "3 Cs" as follows:

~ CLARITY: Of communication, in Profiles, in emails, in messages, in questions/answers, and in discussions. It is a major online challenge to be understood in the way in which you wish to be understood.

~ CONVICTION: Be true to yourself, honest, ethical, open (revealing, open-minded, open to opportunity) and focused on what you wish to communicate, with whom, and why. You need to act with confidence, to be convincing, to establish credibility and trust, with a clear positioning of your expertise, to demonstrate (implicitly -- without spam or blatant self-promotion) exactly what you have to offer, and how you will be able to help or serve others.

~ COMMITMENT: Do what you will say you will do (and not do), and follow through in whatever ways are required, to build and solidify a trusting relationship with individuals and your network as a group. Commit to that select group or community of relevant contacts, whether for a professional or a personal relationship (do not over-stretch your network; rather "prune" it periodically to build its strength). Commit to cultivate, maintain, develop, grow, and strengthen those relationships over time, for mutual benefit of each contact and for the entire group. Cross-fertilize the group and facilitate introductions to others within the group, as well as bringing in new members to strengthen it.

Sidebar/Footnote:
On the last point (which, as metaphor, sounds like gardening -- I was a farm boy, and I enjoy gardening), I have just surpassed 500 contacts on my LI network. In my opinion, this is too large, at least for my purpose and available time. (Others may differ, or may have different reasons for networking, but how many meaningful relationships can anyone reasonably maintain?) I recently "pruned" my networks on other social networks (where I mainly only "park" a Profile anyway), and I intend to do the same on LinkedIn soon. In the future, I intend to be much more selective about accepting or issuing invitations. And I recommend the same for any serious professional networker.

Thanks again for the question!

Best! Frank

posted July 7, 2008

1) Transparency - all cards must be on the table, no hidden agendas, no aces up the sleeve. Would you network with someone you don't trust?

2) Respect - You need not agree with what everyone says, but at least keep your mind open and your responses tactful - it's as easy to nice as it is to be creepy- and being nice is so much..... "nicer" Otherwise, you can always walk out if you can't stand anyone (don't dress up as a Nazi storm trooper and shout sieg heil in a Bar Mitzvah).

3) Expertise - Give people a reason to network with you, share your knowledge, and learn from group. I'd rather have a small network with substance who I interact with and learn from, than a bloated network composed of complete strangers who only connected for the sake of adding another john doe to their "huge" network

posted July 7, 2008

1) Give first. Develop the mindset that you are at a networking event to give first, not sell or talk about what you do. Find ways to help other people, ask them questions.

2) Follow-up. After meeting someone, send an e-mail or thank you note to let them know how much you enjoyed the conversation. If you told them that you would introduce them to someone or do something for them, then do it.

3) Keep in touch. Develop relationships with people you like and who you can have a mutually beneficial relationship with.

Links:

• http://www.thereferraladvisor.com

posted July 7, 2008

Keys to successful networking:

1) Show up. Not only show up at the event (live or virtual), but be in the moment - focusing on who you are there to meet, who you can help, and how you can contribute to the event's success.
2) Be up. Come in with a positive attitude. Listen attentively and contribute positive comments where appropriate; refrain from contributing negative comments (even if the food IS awful or the crowd IS boring).
3) Follow up. The gold in networking is in the follow up. Help yourself to do this by taking notes on business cards or next to names if it's virtual. Send a quick email or note, or make a quick phone call, to thank the person for spending time with you, and plan on following up with another longer meeting in phone or in person.

Remember, the key to networking is UP!

posted July 7, 2008

The most important element to successful networking is entering into the networking relationship with a "What can I do for you attitude". Sending business to the people I know who are best suited to do that business is a great way of my being a useful ally to my network contacts. If I am constantly thinking about who I know who can benefit from your services, then I am networking efficiently.

Secondly, make it a point of getting to know the people you are networking with. The more I know about what my network contacts do, the better I am able to target the referrals or contact questions I send them.

Thirdly, saying "THANK YOU". Gratitude for being thought of and respected is the best way to let your network contact know that you appreciate their thinking of you.

posted July 7, 2008

Cristina, an important but often neglected key to successful networking is follow up.

It does you no good to come home with a pocket full of business cards and have no idea what to do with them next.

For networking to be successful, people must

a) know who you are and what you do;
b) consider you as a friend, someone they can trust and work with; and
c) have a system in place to create and deepen those relationships, because there simply aren't enough hours in the day to stay in touch with the members of our network the way we know we should.

Links:

• http://www.KeepInTouchCoach.com

posted July 7, 2008

I see the title of your book is about the 30-sec intro, but you question and most of the answers are about networking in general. So, here are my top 3 points to successful networking (both face-to-face and online):

1) Listen. There is nothing more noticeable than brand new networkers at a networking event. There the ones who barge in on conversations and starts talking about themselves, insensitive to what is going on around them. The same for online networking. If you just "show up" and start blabbing about yourself, it's an instant turn off to people UNLESS what you are talking about serves some need of someone who was talking before you. Listen to what people are saying they want/need. If you have something to give them, THEN talk.

2) Be generous. When you do see an opportunity to give, be generous with your information. I cannot tell you how many valuable long-term network relationships I have created simply because I took the time to give someone a detailed answer to a technical issue they were battling. E.g: last week (on another network) I gave someone detailed instructions on how they could record a cassette tape onto their PC for free, and saved them the hassle of paying someone to do it for them. I actually got email from OTHER people thanking me for the answer. Did these people then go to my website and join my list? You bet.

3) Be patient. Networking is a long-term process. We are not hammers trying to drive in a nail. It should feel more like a nice warm bath to our networkers. When they see our name online, they should say, "Oh, there's so-and-so again. I always like to read what he/she has to say."

I have to admit that I haven't yet been as avid an online networker at LI as I have been on some of my other networks, but the more I spend time on it, the more I like it. Now that I have discovered the Q&A, I will be here more often. I only wish that they allowed you to define more topics. I find them a bit restrictive in scope. Anyone else feel the same?

Warm wishes,
Lynn Serafinn, MAED, CPCC
Create-a-Life
Personal Transformation Coaching and Workshops
"The voice that calls forth YOUR voice"
Web: http://www.create-a-life.co.uk

FR*EE e-course: "Making Friends with the Monsters Under Your Bed".
Get it at http://www.create-a-life.co.uk/monsters_ecourse_signup.html

posted July 7, 2008

Hi Cristina
In my experience:

1. Network with a mindset of give, not take. Add value to the person you are talking to, which doesn't mean by hiring you! It could be providing resources/information/referral for example. How you find this out is the second element.........

2. Listen and ask questions. Most people like to talk about themselves and will tell you what is important to them if you ask skillfully. I am making an important assumption here and that is that you are genuinely interested in people, if not, it sounds like interrogation. However taking an interest leads to the third element......

3. Don't talk about yourself. Remember it isn't about you, it's about them. It is boring to listen to an endless stream of information about the company you work for, how long they've been in business, where they are based, list of services etc. The listener wants to know you understand them and this is achieved via elements 1 and 2.

These things seem to me to be key for business, social and on-line networking. As I say though, it's really tough to fake, you need to be genuinely interested!

posted July 7, 2008

Be found - Create a positive presence for you/your business that is inviting, open and friendly. Provide various opportunities for others to recognize & connect with you and/or your business.

Be available - Respond to others in a timely manner and reach out to them with sincerity. Make sure they are always treated with kindness and respect.

Be sociable - Recognize others for who they are and what they do, offer friendly advice if asked, and provide your continued support and friendship by keeping in touch and communicating on a regular basis.

(Note: Nothing annoys people more than a pushy sales pitch - if you have one, throw it away.)

posted July 7, 2008

Here's my networking/success mantra: Mind the GAP:

G= Gratitude. It’s a practiced mindset that leaves no room for negativity – you can’t be grateful and grumpy at the same time. Networking requires positivity and passion. Start with gratitude for where you are now, the lessons therein and the vision to get to where you want to be. Gratitude is valuable success tool used by elite, well-grounded achievers.

A= Accountability – The BIGGY. Determine, Define and Document your networking goals. Create the next steps and a timeline. Then share it with an accountability partner- this is vital. 90% of new businesses fail often due to a lack of systems and accountability. “Planning without action is a daydream. Action without planning is a nightmare.” ~ Japanese Proverb

P= Persistence. Push past your procrastination. (See accountability). Networking takes practice, like learning to play a finely tuned instrument. It doesn’t happen by accident or without consistent follow up. Most people spend a paltry 15% “selling” their service or product and 85% on who knows what. Flip the equation until your income is sufficient to fund your dreams and then Mind the GAP!

Links:

• http://www.blueoceancoaching.com

posted July 8, 2008

Hi Cristina,

There are some wonderful & valuable inputs here already - yet thought could add my suggestions - If I read your question correctly you have asked what are the top 3 elements to successful networking for designing a Compelling 30 second intro - right?

1. Be clear on your objective for building your network - answer yourself WHY to? For WHAT? with WHOM? by WHEN? WHERE?. Networking dosent work when the other person sees no genuinity in your approach. The above questions - remember, lingers in the mind of the person whom you want to network too...in simple words do your homework on the profile of people you want to network with - be informed.

2. I vouch what Octavio has suggested - have clarity on your Personal brand image

3. Re-assure with your behavior to your new contact that you are not a name dropper

Chandramoorthy

posted July 9, 2008

1. Have something to GIVE and do not go to networking events with the only goal to GET things.

2. Balance well between real contacts. people you meet, talk to in your network and the contacts only in networks like these (LinedIn)

3. Always keep in mind that networking is abount win/win. Yes, not a modern thing, but it is true: peopel will only see you as a valuable addition to their network if yhey benefit from it. Also look at your network contacts from that point of view: what is the win for me? If there is none, skip them!

Ik I may add a fourth: It is far better to really know 10 people well than having a 500+ network of people you hardly know.

posted July 9, 2008

Networking happens everywhere! In the grocery store, the doctors office, the line at the post office etc. Always be aware of who you are meeting and how you can make the following a constant in your life.

1. Differentiate. Being unique distinguishes you from others, especially those that are in the same industry. - Being the same was a way of establishing acceptance. In the business world, the opposite is true. You will have an advantage when you differentiate. For example, initiate conversations with people you don’t know.

2. Be Memorable. There are two ways to be memorable – appearance and behavior. Barbara Bush wears her infamous pearls and Larry King is known for his suspenders. They have branded themselves. You must focus on being remembered for the right reason – generosity, punctuality, follow through, integrity and resourcefulness are examples.

3. Make A Difference. You never know who you will meet and the difference you can make in someone else’s life or the difference that encounter will make in your life. Make genuine comments and compliments. Go out of your way to make a newcomer feel comfortable at any event. Over time, you’ll be amazed how differentiating yourself, being memorable and making a difference will impact your succes.

I would also recommend the segments on my radio programs with David Cohen on becoming the Ambassador of Your Brand and Chi Chi Okeizie who has also written a book on this topic. You can listen to their segments at the website I have listed.

Links:

• http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ibalnet

Kathleen S also suggests these experts on this topic:

• Chi Chi O
• David C

posted July 9, 2008

Hi Cristina,

Regarding "networking" through the internet, as Facebook, Linkedin, and others the 3 keys to successful steps are:

1) You must know what you want to get through that channel. If you want make friends, reconnect with old friends, start a romantic relationship, make business, whatever...
2) Look for the best "network tool" for your specific objectives
3) Be honest and participative

If the networking you say is in a real life, the steps are quite a bit different:

1) First is the same, you must to know what do you expect about others, anyone relationship could survival if one part doesn't know what really want.
2) Exchange visit cards, is not make contact, you need more than it to say that person is part of your relationship network
3) Be honest, give your best to your colleagues, and certainly you will receive the same back.

Here are my techniques. I hope this helps!

Regards,

Janete

posted July 9, 2008

1. Be interested - Getting people to talk about themselves is a great way to start. Ask good questions to show you're engaged.

2. Be memorable - Give people a story, an idea or a connection that they'll remember you for later.

3. Follow up - The most important thing out of the three. Without follow up networking is idle chatter. Do it sooner rather than later or you'll forget and an opportunity to start a great relationship will be lost.

posted July 9, 2008

Christina,
This is a wonderful question.
I would like to present what I feel the 3 key aspects for successful networking.

1. The ability to impress, by words, actions, answers, questions, ... any of many such things, and to keep the impression growing.
2. The feeling of mutual appreciation and need, for any purpose.
3. The respect and importance shown towards each other.

regards..

posted July 7, 2008

Hi Christina,

3 things I think are important in just a few words are:

a. Show up
b. Respond
c. Be consistent in your delivery

It's similar to what I appreciate in face to face friends. If they don't show up, if they don't repsond, or they are inconsistent so I don't know what to expect - it makes the work of a relationship/network very difficult.

Cheers,
Mary

Links:

• http://www.shasta-relo.com

posted July 7, 2008

- Always connected.
- Show what are you doing through status.
- Be proactive in Q & A or Blogs.

posted July 7, 2008

Off of the top of my head, I'd say Authenticity, Connection, and Clarity.

Thanks for asking!

posted July 8, 2008

Cristina, I would say the 3 elements are:

1) Who you work with - target market
2) What pain you can take away from your prospects
3) Top three services provided

With Gratitude,
Michelle Ulrich
www.virtualbusinessmarketing.com

posted July 8, 2008

Successful networking is a step towards purpose driven relationships.
1. Successful networking occurs when each interaction is approached with the goal of mutual benefits. The initial interaction is key to setting the groundwork for a symbiotic relationship.
2. Successful networking occurs when you remember. This is not remembering personal information, rather spreading their mission to other contacts. By matching your contacts with the resources that they need you give contacts what they actually need... business.
3. Successful networking requires trust. Each person you meet needs to trust your competence, your message, and that you will reciprocate good deeds.

I would also like to point out that networking cannot occur when you settle into a routine. Successful networking requires that you place yourself in different situations on a regular basis. This increases the likelihood of meeting a diversified network.

posted July 9, 2008

1. Do something for nothing. If someone asks for a favor and you don't see a short term pay off, do it anyway. They'll be grateful and likely willing to return the favor when it's your turn to ask.

2. Don't always want something. Call to check in for no reason, but be respectful of people's schedules and ask if it's a good time to chat/catch up. Having the sensitivity not to insert yourself into a contact's already overloaded day can almost mean as much as the initial outreach.

3. If someone is down or on the "outs," re-double your effort to stay in touch. People's fortunes change and they'll remember that you were there when others weren't.

posted July 9, 2008

I believe the 3 key elements to successful networking are:
1) Smile. This provides a welcoming approach.
2) Circulate around the room. Get to know everyone.
3) Ask people about themselves. This is the best way to connect with people.

Links:

• http://www.avalonwellness.org
• http://www.4everyoung.nsedreams.com

posted July 9, 2008

Consistency
Honesty
Accountability

And I'd throw in another one- Selflessness.

posted July 9, 2008

Hi Cristina,

Great question, as I can see from the previous responses we each have our own ideas about what makes for successful networking. One important thing to remember is you get out of it what you put into it.

First, don't be afraid to approach someone with a simple hello. Second, I always ask if there is something that I can do for them, it is simple, straight forward and gives me the chance to establish trust, and start building a relationship. Third, if someone does give you something to do for them, no matter how big or small it seems to you, follow through and follow up. Again it is a great relationship builder and usually they will be more than happy to return the favor for you.

posted July 9, 2008

For the 30-second intro:
Be bold/memorable (biggest error most people make is not being bold or memorable)
Be brief
Be clear with your benefit to others

re: top 3 elements:
Be strategic ( think about who you'd like to meet and where they might be hanging out)
Be generous (give without expectation)
Upgrade your network - most people network with people they feel comfortable around. Be uncomfortable, stretch, seek to network with people who have decision making accountabilities, who are up to something, who have influence. It's alot of fun to play a bigger game.

posted July 9, 2008