The Power of Community and Staying Connected 

For women leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs, building and maintaining a robust network is a strategy for success and a vital lifeline for personal and professional growth. At THIS IS IT NETWORK™, we understand the profound impact meaningful relationships can have on our lives and careers. Here, we explore the importance of community and offer practical advice on staying in touch and following up after meeting influential contacts.

The Importance of Community

Community is more than just a network of people; it’s a support system, a source of inspiration, and a catalyst for growth. Engaging with a community of like-minded individuals can provide:

1. Motivation: Surrounding yourself with driven, ambitious individuals can keep you motivated and focused on your goals.
2. Support: A strong community offers emotional and professional support, helping you navigate challenges and celebrate successes.
3. Opportunities: Networking can open doors to new possibilities, partnerships, and collaborations you might not have discovered alone.
4. Knowledge: Sharing experiences and insights can provide valuable learning opportunities and broaden your perspective.
5. Belonging: Being part of a community fosters a sense of belonging and connection, crucial for mental well-being and professional fulfillment.

Tips for Staying in Touch

Meeting influential contacts is the first step; nurturing these relationships over time is the value. Here are some practical tips to help you stay in touch and build lasting connections:

1. Follow Up Promptly: Send a follow-up email within 24-48 hours after meeting someone new. Mention something specific from your conversation to show genuine interest and appreciation.
2. Use Social Media: Connect on LinkedIn or follow them on other professional platforms. Engage with their posts by liking, commenting, and sharing to stay visible and maintain a presence in their network.
3. Schedule Regular Check-ins: Set reminders to reach out periodically. Consistency is key to maintaining relationships, whether it’s a quarterly email or a bi-annual coffee meeting.
4. Share Valuable Content: If you encounter an article, book, or event that might interest them, share it. This keeps the communication lines open and positions you as a thoughtful and resourceful contact.
5. Attend Events Together: Invite them to industry events, webinars, or networking functions. Shared experiences can deepen your connection and create more opportunities for interaction.
6. Offer Help and Support: Be proactive in offering assistance. Whether providing a reference, sharing expertise, or connecting them with someone in your network, your willingness to help will be appreciated and reciprocated.
7. Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge their achievements and milestones, whether a promotion, a new venture, or a personal accomplishment. A simple congratulatory message can strengthen your bond.
8. Personalize Your Approach: Tailor your communication to their preferences. Some people prefer emails, while others might appreciate a phone call or a handwritten note.
9. Be Authentic: Authenticity is crucial in building genuine relationships. Be yourself, show genuine interest, and avoid being overly transactional.
10. Stay Organized: Use tools like a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system or a simple spreadsheet to keep track of your contacts, interactions, and follow-up reminders.

At THIS IS IT NETWORK™, we believe in the transformative power of community. By staying connected and nurturing your network, you can unlock opportunities and support to propel you forward in your personal and professional journey. Remember, it’s not just about who you know but how well you know them and how effectively you can collaborate and support each other. So, take that leap, reach out to those influential contacts, and build meaningful relationships today. Together, we can achieve remarkable things.