Johanna Walker

Networks are not only a source of information and support, they’re a source of motivation. This is especially important for those of us working in small or solo enterprises. Making a commitment to someone else, to send them your business plan, or pass a great article on to them, or make an introduction, really creates deadlines that encourage you to keep moving ahead and keep focused.

I’m fortunate to know many ‘super-connectors’ who’ve put me in touch with many people that I’ve then been able to connect with other people. I’ve met great people from fantastic organisations like Ashoka and World Bank Development Marketplace this way - and then been able in turn to put them in touch with amazing students who would be interested in working with them.

Don’t fall into the trap of ‘networking for the sake of networking’ especially when attending events - be selective or you won’t have the time to respect the connections you’ve made.

Keep people updated with what you’re doing. They might not be able to help you now, but in 6 months time they might put you onto something invaluable.

If you see something that you think someone else might be interested in, take the time to pass it on, even if you haven’t touched base in a while. You never know when you might make a difference.

Phone and email - comparatively low-tech! I always enjoy it when I receive emails from people who have ‘personal mailing lists’ - keeping everyone updated with what’s going with their business. I also like to email people when I see a mention of them in the media or if someone has brought them up in conversation with me. I prefer the personal touch to the mass update on a networking site, even though for some people and ventures that does have its place.