Kim Kaupe Shares How to Build a Powerful Network (Even if You’re an Introvert)

I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase “your network is your wealth” before. And while this may be landmarkly true, there are no clues as to how to actually build this network.

Credit: Girl Squad LLC

That’s why I sat down with Kim Kaupe for the latest episode of the Launch Your Business podcast. She is an agency founder, educator and podcast host. And during our conversation, she provided tactical details on how you can build a strong network, even if you’re an introvert.

I’ll be sharing some of my favorite takeaways below, you can listen to the full episode here.

The fastest way to start growing your network

Building your network can feel intimidating, but there’s a quick start that’s often overlooked.

As Kim says, “The most important way you can expand your network, and also the one that people feel most uncomfortable with, is to ask for help. People don’t realize how many connections they already have that would be willing to help if they just ask.”

I know it can feel awkward asking people for help, but one of three things will happen.

• they will ignore you
• They will reply and say they cannot help at the moment
• They will answer and help you create a strong connection

So you have everything to gain and nothing to lose.

Here’s how to get started. Make a list of people you can reach out to, including friends, family, and former co-workers.

What should you say when you report? Kim provides you with a simple and customizable script.

“Hey, I’m actively trying to network with people in (your focus industry) because I’m really curious about (something you’d like to learn). Do you know someone who works in this field?”

That’s it. Once you received this message, you’ve activated your existing network and let them know exactly how they can help you.

Repeat the process until you get at least three introductions from your network.

Next, we’ll cover how best to present yourself as you prepare to explore these new connections.

How to make a good first impression

Once you’ve introduced yourself, the other person will most likely do some research on you before agreeing to chat in real-time.

How can you make sure they’re moving forward with a conversation? Kim has more tips for you.

“I would say the best thing you can do when it comes to representing yourself outside of the corporate sphere is to really build your career capital and really invest in yourself. So I would say if I could start anywhere with anything please start with your LinkedIn. It’s one of the most powerful business networking platforms.”

LinkedIn is definitely the place for business networking, but you need to make sure your profile encourages people to interact with you. Again, Kim chimes in on how this can happen.

“The only thing I would say is make sure your profile is complete. Therefore, people often leave their banners blank, they don’t enter work information, they don’t enter a section about me. So take the time to complete your profile and stand out from the crowd.”

If you need help, Kim has compiled her top LinkedIn profile tips, which you can access at helpmylinkedin.com.

How to do cold outreach without sounding desperate

While your existing network is a good place to start, at some point you will need to start building relationships with people you don’t connect with.

Again, LinkedIn provides the perfect opportunity as you can easily identify people based on their role and industry. However, don’t just sign up and say you want to connect.

Use Kim’s peanut butter and jelly strategy instead.

“The peanut butter to me is someone’s name, it’s unique to them. There are different types of peanut butter, crunchy, smooth, but you identify a specific type of peanut butter.”

It sounds simple, but you can instantly create a more authentic connection just by mentioning the person’s name.

Kim continues, “The jelly is this cool, interesting thing that this person does. It could be a quote they said on a podcast, a fun fact about their LinkedIn profile that you think is really interesting, or it could be a post they made recently.”

Don’t skip this part. This is where you show you’ve done your homework and ditch all other connection requests.

“And then the bread is appreciation and gratitude. So appreciation could be something along the lines of being so great to meet you. I’m really looking forward to learning more from you, and then some kind of gratitude, like thanks for sharing that last post. Thanks for such great points on this podcast, I really look forward to learning more from you.”

Remember, the more specific you are here, the better. And if you ask a related question, you increase your chances of getting an answer.

Networking for introverts who would rather not network

“The first is to start digitally. I think this is a great way to get into the shallow end before heading into the deep end. But I think digital networking can be a really big strength for you in terms of what it’s going to be like when you start networking in person.”

Luckily, we’ve already covered how to do this, so you’re done. The next step is to apply what you have learned.

Kim continues: “And the second is responsibility. It’s like going to the gym. Sometimes it’s really difficult to go to the gym alone. But having a fitness partner or someone who counts on you makes it a lot easier and gives comfort. So when you start networking, get this accountability partner.”

I suggest finding a partner and committing to specific networking goals each month. For example, reach ten people per month and attend at least one event. You should also plan to meet once a week to share your progress. Here’s why.

The American Society of Training and Development (ASTD) conducted a study on accountability and found that when you commit to someone, you achieve a goal 65% of the time. And when you have a specific accountability appointment with someone you hire, you increase your chances of success by up to 95%.

So if you want to build a strong network, consider partnering with an introvert colleague so you can both achieve your goals.

The best way to end any networking opportunity and continue the relationship

Networking can be awkward and a waste of time if you don’t continue to nurture the relationship.

Kim shares how you can achieve this.

“The number one tip for making yourself someone who wants to fit in and people want to connect with is to be helpful. I always say the best way to end meetings or interactions with people is to say, ‘How can I help you? ‘ And don’t you end up with how I can help you with the work? But how can I help you as a person?”

She continues, “I can’t tell you how many times I’ve recommended you to listen to hairstyles, dog walkers, movies and podcasts because at the end of the day, aside from work, we’re all human. And if you can help.” Somebody find that dog walker or that new barber, that can be a big help in their life.”

You’ll be amazed at what can happen when you focus on creating something with other people – a mutually beneficial relationship – instead of focusing on what you can take from them.

Give first and you’ll often get something back from them or someone else in their network. But when you learn to give without expecting anything in return, you can achieve even better results.

What’s next?

Those were a few key takeaways from my conversation with Kim. To hear the full conversation and access additional resources, tune in to this week’s episode of the Launch Your Business podcast.

Do you have any questions or suggestions? Contact me on Instagram or LinkedIn.