Turning Professional Acquaintances into Strong Long-Term Allies

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We would all agree that we all have professional acquaintances—those people we meet at events, conferences, or through mutual connections. These acquaintances may be momentary, but they have the potential to be turned into a fruitful professional relationship if handled properly. So how do you go from being merely an acquaintance, to someone whom they will value and trust? In this article, we will outline some techniques aimed at enhancing relationships with these acquaintances, as well as fully utilizing one’s network.

Engage Beyond The Surface

When dealing with acquaintances, the most important aspect is to go beyond the surface level. In events, you talk about the weather or casual things. However, for real relationships, you need to dig deeper. You need to ask questions that can encourage them to talk more about themselves. Instead of asking, “How is work going?” one might word it as, “What has been the most interesting project that you’ve handled this year?” Such concern enhances mutual understanding and fosters better interactions. Search for common ground in terms of investments, aspirations, or difficulties and nurture them. Remember, every conversation you have can be used to turn acquaintances into long-term allies.

Follow Up With Intent

After an initial conversation, the hard part begins. One of the most common errors that people make is that they meet someone and thereafter completely ignore the individual. Instead, make it a practice to follow up with your acquaintances as soon as you are done meeting. A simple email or LinkedIn message can be a great way to start. Referring to something in your chat may help them to remember you, and it also shows them that you appreciate the interaction.

Maybe you talked about a book they had mentioned to you earlier; send them a message on how you found the book interesting, or look for an article that is related to it. In doing so, even if it’s just a short period after talking, you are shifting the connection from acquaintances to allies. Try to provide them with insightful articles or events that may benefit them. Such communication enhances the relationship and proves that you value the connection.

Be Of Service

To turn acquaintances into long-term allies, adopt the principle of reciprocity. Be on the lookout for ways to do something constructive for them, such as sharing a job opportunity with them, or even just giving them constructive advice regarding a project. When you provide support to your acquaintances, you are establishing an element of trust and advantage. People bond easily when there is something that they can depend on in each other. If you also find yourself needing assistance from them, do not be embarrassed to resort to assistance. That exchange will add more value to the relationship. The more time you invest in your acquaintances, then the better your bonds and ties will be with them.

Final Thoughts

Turning professional acquaintances into trusted allies is a challenge worth pursuing, but in itself, it is not too easy. However, if you strive to have meaningful interactions, follow up intentionally, and help people out, you will build networks that will not only be good for your professional advancement but will also be beneficial for your spheres. Every acquaintance can be turned into an ally. So go ahead, talk to people, be of help to them, and sooner than you think, they will morph into fulfilling connections that will help you out in due course.

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Article originally written by Ibukunolowa King-Okuneye.