Creating a database for follow-up on networking opportunities

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Abstract

Successful collaborations require strategic networking among potential stakeholders. Every encounter with new people is an opportunity to gather useful data that should be filed away and easily accessed for future use. Managing this information with a database is a logical and efficient use of resources. This effective practice is based on materials developed by Campaign Consultation, Inc., for the ASK to Sustain Institute in San Diego, California, October 2003.

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Issue

If you don't have a database software package on your computer, keeping track of potential partners or contacts in an organized way, can be a challenge.

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Action

According to Campaign Consultation, Inc., creating and using even a simple database will help programs to keep track of all potential partners and stakeholders easily and with little financial investment. Steps to take include:
  • Procure an index card holder (a shoe box will do). Using dividers (A-Z) separate cards into the sections of the alphabet.
  • Every time you take a business card from someone, staple it to an index card and place it in the appropriate alphabetized section.
  • Make notes on the card relevant to the person, to which the card belongs. If they shared any information you can use to make a connection with them the next time you talk to them, write down this information.
  • Make a note to call within the next ten days of meeting them and mark it on your calendar. When calling, refer to the index card. Reintroduce yourself. Remind them of how or where you met. Ask them a question you made a note about. Then state the purpose of your call.
  • Each time you talk with a particular individual, make a note of relevant information on their card.
  • You can also include numbered dividers (1-31) in the same box. If you meet Jane Doe on January 15th and want to follow up on the 25th, simply make a note on the reverse side of the index card and file it under 25.
  • Each day you will pull the cards behind the current date, follow up on the action you wrote on the back of the card, and annotate what you did and the next follow up time, replacing the card behind the appropriate number.

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Context

In order to network effectively, organizations need to set goals and figure out the best way to accomplish these. This process includes doing an honest evaluation of your organization's processes, as well as reflecting on the historical and cultural context of your organization.

Founded in 1988, Campaign Consultation, Inc., works with individuals and organizations at local, state, national, and international levels to achieve community development, fund raising, diversity utilization, issue advocacy, media and marketing, public policy as well as organizational and business development success.

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Posted On

May 20, 2004

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For More Information

Campaign Consultation, Inc.
2819 Saint Paul Street
Baltimore, MD 21218-4312
Phone: (410) 243-7979
Toll-free: 1-877-234-2253
Fax: (410) 243-1024

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