GAIN More from Your One-to-Ones
One-to-ones are effective ways to deep dive into networking relationships. For those of you who may be unfamiliar with networking groups, they usually encourage members to meet each other outside of the group in a more personal setting. This helps them to better understand each others’ professions, audience, and goals as well as how to better refer business to each other.
A recent friend of mine shared a great strategy with me. In order to make the most of your time together, remember the acronym GAINS to guide the discussion during your meeting:
G – Goals. What are your personal and professional goals moving into the future? A – Accomplishments. What have you achieved in both your career and your personal life that makes you proud and gives a feeling of satisfaction? I – Interests. Learning the hobbies and interests of others positively impacts the relational factor and helps to create bonds and friendships. N – Networks. Discuss your networks. Your clubs, volunteer organizations, committees, church groups, and professional groups. S – Skills. What are you good at? Who is your best client? What part of your job do you like most?
I found this structure to be particularly helpful in staying on point when getting to know a new contact or colleague. Let me know how it works for you!
