I’ve leveraged travel to enhance my professional network significantly. For instance, during a recent trip to Lagos, I posted real-time updates about local business trends, attracting engagement from industry leaders. By using location tags, I connected with several professionals in the area, leading to valuable discussions and potential partnerships. Additionally, I attended a virtual networking event while abroad, which allowed me to interact with a broader audience and exchange ideas. These strategies not only fostered connections but also enriched my understanding of regional markets, ultimately benefiting my company’s growth trajectory.

Social media is a powerful tool for expanding your professional network. Personally I do it like this: 1) Stay active- posts regularly to maintain visibility and share insights relevant to your field. 2) Leverage stories and posts- Share updates about your travels and business activities to catch the attention of potential clients. 3) Location based networking- Use LinkedIn to find and connect with experts in your current location and filed. 4) Join Groups- Join industry related groups to find valuable networking opportunities.

One thing I have found helpful about leveraging social media to grow your professional network, is to understand what makes people trust people online. There are certain elements that people hope to see when they are engaging with people online. Some people have gotten bad experiences from working with people they met online. Your duty is to ensure you are providing as much information as is relevant to making people Know you more, like you, and trust you. From feedback videos or reviews from people you have worked with, plus behind the scenes of your work, people can make a decision whether or not they want to work with you. Get my book: The 10 Commandments of Networking today!

In my experience, traveling presents a chance to develop my network a couple of ways. I can plan ahead to meet with people in person that I've come to know only thru remote connections before. This brings additional dimensions to the relationship that is very rewarding. Another way is to intentionally find events or site to visit while traveling where I'm likely to meet people who know how to connect positively with stranglers. Not every person is open to take advantage of meeting a new person, and some only if the context is familiar. Be adaptable to leverage all kinds of situations to make great connections.

Start an industry group with your contacts and invite them to share it with theirs. This will allow you to post "updates" and send "helpful tips" to a broad range of customers and potential prospects. Make the content relevant and social media will do the rest for you, exposing those hidden prospects that have been searching for the solutions you can provide. When you solve problems for people who don't know you it makes them want to know you and what other problems you can solve. Always stay a few steps ahead of the game.