Network to Boost your Net worth!
As a search professional for 22 years now, I meet and connect with people daily. Networking is in my DNA and honestly, it is one of the most exciting aspects of what I do!
Porter Gale very rightly says “your network is your networth!”
Networking is a very social skill and not everyone is good at it or comfortable with it. It may come naturally to some, while others find it a chore. In either case its importance cannot be undermined either in your personal or professional life because of its far-reaching implications. It is something each one needs to and can develop—not just to move their career forward but as a necessary life skill as well.
So, while it is important to network, it is more important to network in the right way.
Building meaningful relationships, definitively adds value to your career. Getting to know other professionals in your field or across industries you may be interested in, in an informal manner over a cup of coffee or sometimes in a social gathering or even while playing a round of golf can help build an enriching, long term relationship. Find common ground and you can end up a ‘bank’ of connections for posterity.
Eliza Stanley says, “To be successful, networking needs to be purposeful, specific, and reciprocal.” This can be done through prompt responses, enabling people to connect with one another or simply by acknowledging their presence in person or on social media. Take a step forward, offer a helping hand, share insights where you can, a non- transactional approach, one that gives more than it takes, can go a long way in strengthening your network.
Building a relationship takes effort and time. It makes sense to keep a wide perspective, look for opportunities but do connect to share insights or thought leadership too because an astute person will be able to determine a genuine relationship. Also, once connected, do not forget to keep in touch!
Being a part of several groups of relevance, virtually or getting a membership with organizations like FICCI, CII, NASSCOM (choose one that matters to you) help in leveraging industry connections which, in turn, aid you to market your brand. But to do this, communicating your strengths, your value, in no uncertain terms, is imperative!
Finally, know that networking is not a chore, you just make it fun!
Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities.” – Michele Jennae
