As you continue to build your professional network, you cannot stop once you think it is strong enough. You should continue to add connections to your network in an effort to expand your reach as much as possible. You also need to stay connected with the members of your network in order to keep your career fresh and stay open to new opportunities.
Use Social Media
One of the best ways to stay connected to your network is through social media. You can connect with the members of your network using more than just LinkedIn. Find them on Twitter, Facebook and Google+ so you can contact them with questions or other issues. You can do this even if you do not speak to your connections on a regular basis. The best way to stay connected via social media is to find out which network your connection uses the most. Then, talk to them using this social media network.
Have Lunch
Another thing you can do to stay connected to is schedule a lunch date. These meetings should be reserved for people whom you regard as close friends because someone else might not want to make small talk for two hours. A lunch date or going out for drinks after work is an excellent way to stay connected to members of your network.
Create a Mutually Beneficial Relationship
As you continue to build a network, you need to make sure that it is not all about you. If this happens, people will begin to resent being connected with you. You need to make sure the relationships with your connections are mutually beneficial. Ask how they are doing, what is new in their career and how you can help them. If they need help finding a job, give them a hand, so long as it is not the same job you are trying to acquire.
Create an Inner Circle
Professional networks can be so large that you might have too many connections, making it difficult to stay in contact with everyone. If this is the case for your network, you should create an inner circle. These are people who you like to contact on a daily or weekly basis. Stay up-to-date in their lives and careers so they can return the favor one day.
Contact the experienced recruiting staff at Halpin Personnel today to discuss the best methods to staying connected with your network.