What is vital for maintaining a strong professional network?

Maintaining and nurturing relationships over time is essential for developing a strong professional network. This approach goes beyond just making initial contacts; it emphasizes the importance of ongoing communication and engagement. By keeping in touch with your network, whether through regular updates, shared resources, or simply checking in, you foster trust and mutual support. This continuity strengthens relationships and can lead to collaborative opportunities, referrals, and valuable insights over time.

In contrast, solely connecting with high-level executives limits your network to a narrow group, missing the potential value in relationships at various levels. Focusing only on transactional interactions neglects the relationship-building aspect that can lead to deeper connections and future opportunities. Avoiding contact after initial meetings undermines the initial effort of making connections, as relationships require time and effort to mature and provide mutual benefits.