What networking tools, methods or best practices have particularly worked for you?

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I guess you mean personal networking

I frequently would answer the phone with “Hello, how can I help you today?”

99% of the time people needed help and if I helped them it began building a bond of mutual assistance and connections over time. The people you have helped remember you the most

If you mean IP networking…. Divide by 2. Whenever you have a network problem divide the network in two. Which half still has the problem? Divide that half again by 2. Continue this process and you’ll find the problem in no time at all

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Content Writing. I like to write long-form content about software quality challenges and how this can be tackled with Test Driven Development, Hexagonal Architecture, Clean Architecture. By writing about challenges and solutions, it helped people with a similar mindset to connect with me.

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I find writings articles and blogs creates a lot of connections within the community.

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I network to meet people that I want to develop a relationship with. I do that by giving first. I try to find someway I can help. Make an introduction, offer a resource, share some advice.

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Networking is challenging in our current environment. There exists a heavy dependency on virtual platforms or social media channels. This platform, for example, opens up new access to like-minded professionals. For me personally, I find that networking organically works best through existing client relationships, peer interactions, or introductions from existing individuals whom I have a relationship with. The best practice is always nurturing relationships that generate mutual trust and respect.

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In terms of tools attending peer communities in smaller group settings through meetup or industry connects is a great way to meet new people. However to build a network from those connects it is important to build a relationship when you don’t need anything in return at that time rather helping out others when you can is key.

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Building a professional network is hard work.

A few things that have worked for me over the years:

1. Always approach a new networking connection with a "give, give, give" attitude. What can I offer this person irrespective of what I receive in return?
2. Offer to buy a coffee or a meal and be willing to drive to a convenient location for in-person meetings.
3. Be kind and be appreciative of the time and help you receive from your connections
4. Networking happens in strange unknown or unscripted ways you can imagine. Always strike a conversation and show genuine interest in every contact you run into whether you perceive them to be of professional use to you or not.
5. When you attend trade shows or industry events, take notes of interesting conversations or connections and personally follow up afterwards
6. Always pay it forward. What goes around, comes around.

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Set clear boundaries. As your network grows, so do the demands on your resources. You only scale so far and it's important to keep networking from interfering with your day job and personal time.

Find ways to scale the number of people you can help. Create content to answer the most frequently asked questions. Aggregate resources in a social media feed or on your website. Setup Discord or Slack groups and let community members help each other and bring new resources to the community.

Don't be afraid to leverage your network. Helping others gives you the right to ask for help or market to the community from time to time.

What networking tools, methods or best practices have particularly worked for you?

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