How Busy Executives Can Build Powerful Networks

One of my favorite aspects of being an executive coach is teaching “Cracking the C-Suite” with Ethan Evans. Twice a year, we work with 40+ Directors/VPs and focus on 4 executive skill areas and key roles:

1. Strategic Influencing > Steward
2. Scale Culture > Conductor
3. Develop Talent > Coach
4. Executive Presence > Energizer

Here’s one great question that came up last class: “Networking takes a lot of time. Any advice on how to find time, prioritize, or a mental model for time management for networking?”

This dovetails with a chat I had recently with a prospective client: While he wasn’t ready to leave his current position – he wanted to help get the next round of funding to support a new product launch – he also wanted to start “putting himself out there in 6 months.” I listened and said, emphatically, “Don’t wait, start your networking now….many execs I know like to sneak it in Saturday mornings.”

I have been a bit of a broken record lately with the idea of “sneaking in time” to coach, to exercise, and to strategize. Not any different with networking. If you put these practices on your calendar, they’re far more likely to happen. Some would criticize this approach as just adding to an already crazy calendar. Gotta LET GO as you add. If you add calendar time for coaching/exercise/ strategy/networking, then LET GO of other meetings by delegating them.

So this Saturday, here are two ways to get the networking going. Goals are to up your LinkedIn (LI) connections, deepen them, and establish thought leadership over time. This plan is helpful if you’re looking for a job now (or later) or if you’re merely wanting to meet experts to uplevel your knowledge.

One, establish your “TOP-20 CONNECTORS”:

• These are first connections you know already; they have 3K+ followers who post regularly. Keep them on your radar.
• Do coffee + get insights from them. Text on LI to reconnect and ask for IRL coffee or a quick Zoom. Ask what they are seeing in the industry. If you’re seeking a job, ask for referrals in a follow-up text.
• Follow their LI posts; like them, comment on them and repost.

Two, determine your “REACH OUT ROADMAP”:

• Gain new connections (2nd level) via your current Top-20 connectors; add personalized LI messages naming your common connection.
• Scale your network by posting articles you find interesting; eventually find your voice and start writing your own content.
• Go to IRL meetings 2-4 times a month; find common ground with 2-4 people each time; and link on the spot (via LI QRC) or afterwards. Key to small talk is signature questions in your back pocket, ones that get your conversation partners to tell a story (e.g., “tell me what brought you here today”).