Joining any organization or membership is a great first step in expanding networking capabilities and building relationships as well as revenue. Independent recruiters join split placement networks to not only build relationships, but trading partners. In those networks especially, proper contact is key. These tips are brought in part by NPAworldwide’s member services manager, Marcia Bateman, along with comments by actual members of the network.
1- Pick up the phone –Make a goal that when you go to send an email, think about if a phone call may establish a better relationship, and if you think it could, pick up the phone instead. Effectively communicating with partners regarding candidate submission, client activity, and job related specifics that are not found on job description are important to both the partner who has the position, and the one with the candidate. One member said, “Nothing beats picking up the phone instead of emailing and it’s surprising how much quicker it can be too. We talk a lot quicker than we can type!!”
2- Getting personal– This year if you are a member of an organization, make it a goal to attend meetings and get to know people you can do business with. Nothing replaces meeting folks face to face over a beverage.
3- Get going– There will always be groups you join where you find yourself in a state of doing absolutely nothing, make that change this year. If you are hesitant as to where to start, try reaching out to a staff member first to admit you have been slacking, and you want to change that. They can help get that ROI going for you.
4- Relationships really matter and business is personal to most folks. So let’s make a commitment to let go of the constant technology when at networking events or in the presence of clients, partners, or really people in general. For one hour in the coming weeks shut off your computer, your cell phone and see what it’s like to be present with people. Stop chasing social media and start building long-term authentic relationships with your trading partners.
5- Meet the new members- Make sure and welcome new folks into any organization you are a part of, you get first dibs on new trading partners or business associates! If you have any good trading partners not in your organization, reach out to staff and ask if there is any financial incentive to refer them, there usually is, and your partner will thank you as they get more opportunity as well.
Hope you are up for the challenge of communication this year in your network!