Work on your timing and ask for what you want.

Your network is one of your biggest assets in your professional career. Yet, so often you forgot to ask people for things that you want or keep in touch with them so that you feel comfortable asking. I recommend asking people for things by starting with your hot spots. A hot spot is a person that you think could assist you with what you want. They might not have the answer, but they are well connected to someone who is able to solve your situation.

For example, if you want an introduction to a company, let’s call it Viking, and you see on Linkedin that your 1st connection with is connected to the head of Sales at Viking you have a hot spot. Reach out to your first connection and be prepared to explain:

• what you want,

• why you want it and

• why you are the right person to be connected.

You may be wondering why do you have to explain all those things to your 1st connection? By being thorough and prepared your first connection will be able to confidently recommend and introduce you to the head of Sales at VIKING. People will gladly assist you with a connection if they are secure in the relationship they have with you and if you can demonstrate why you will do a good job with their referral. Asking for what you want from your network is important so you can expand your network and grow your sales or impact inside an organization.

On this Friday afternoon, I share a story from back in my college days when there used to be keg parties and you wanted a beer but you were far away from the keg. You would look to see who was closest to the keg and then pass your cup to them and say “Hey can you please get me a beer.” Usually those people were happy to pass your cup along as they knew you would do the same for them if you were closer.

Asking for what you want from your network is about being clear with your goals, clear with your relationships and clear with how you ask for a beer or an impactful introduction.