Most of us know how important it is to network, although we sometimes don’t feel like we have time – especially when we have a demanding job. But introverts can find the process of initiating contact with people – even friends – a little difficult. Here are a few of my own experiences in networking over the past year that I hope will inspire:
• Last year, I connected through LinkedIn with “Carol”, a fellow Alum from Northwestern University. Carol is active online on LinkedIn and via several professional blogs. I found her writings interesting, and sent an invitation to connect and get to know each other. We actively communicate, and I am attending a networking teleseminar of hers (for free) because I gave her feedback on a draft version of her material (a favor).
• I keep in touch with many friends and former colleagues from Hilton, through LinkedIn and Facebook. “Tracy”, who I helped with her resume, called me last week with a lead for a possible consulting job. I am now in contact with the placement company who is trying to fill a strategic planning position for an important client.
• When I first became active on LinkedIn early in 2009, I reached out to a former co-worker who is now an executive at a local strategic meeting and event production agency. “Carolyn” and I always admired each other and enjoyed working together. It turned out that she was working on a project for a major hospitality corporation. My experience was a good fit for her needs, and her company became the first client for my services through Haropulos Bailey Consulting.
• Another NU Alum, “Howard”, is an executive with a local graduate school of management. We connected through LinkedIn, and I was invited to join the Advisory Committee for consultation on development of a new teleseminar on Managing Global Virtual Teams. Through this activity, I have expanded my network by connecting with the other committee members. Howard and I follow each other’s blogs.
Networking isn’t a task, it’s a path to new relationships and experiences. Sometimes those experiences result in exciting new opportunities. Give first - with no expectations in mind - and doors just naturally open now and again. Good luck, and have some fun!
Hi Laurel,
ReplyDeleteGreat to hear your networking stories, including ours!
What I've observed in our interactions is that you focus on adding value, whether it's answering a question on LinkedIn, or adding to an online discussion or giving me feedback through email. You are a great role model for networking!
Best,
Carol
While in transition, I’ve heard many professionals speak about the benefits of networking. However, I’m beginning to realize it depends on the type of networking. If you’re looking for work, it’s not necessarily about calling someone and asking them if they have a job. The last thing a busy professional wants to do is talk with someone they don’t know about employment at their company. Instead, ask them for advice. Provide them with your skill set and ask, “If you were in my position, what would you do?” On the other hand, “do you know if your industry might benefit from someone with my skill set?”
ReplyDeleteMy most recent approach when it comes to networking is focusing on paying it forward. I’m trying to help whomever I can and a significant role here revolves around listening. Listen to your contacts about their target companies, business opportunities, and what they want to do and add that valuable data to your CRM.
I’ve learned the value of networking during this transition time. This value can be applied to employment or self-employment opportunities and revolves around the personal and professional aspects of a relationship. When I reconnect to the labor force, I owe it to myself to continue to network so those relationships can continue to be nurtured and developed.