How can you identify and leverage informal networks during an executive career transition?

In a transition, one needs to leverage both internal and external networks. When it comes to internal, very often any other ex - colleagues working in the current organization, even if you had not known them before can be very helpful. When it comes to external networks, look at two types- one who know you well as a person and have been there for you on a consistent basis who can help you stay anchored to your principles and values during the transition; and the second set is to specifically identify those in your networks can add value to the role that you are transitioning or know about the organization into which you are transitioning. But the key is to not allow yourself to get muddled by multiple views some could even be contradictory.

First do a self-assessment of your actual strongest skills. Then ask yourself in which industries or organizations need these skills. Identify the likely influencers and hiring decision makers. Mobilize your informal network to introduce you to these people or ask them to help you do the necessary research. Practice your approach with your informal network. Rinse, repeat. It works!

During transition , one needs to first understand the role and what is expected out of the role holder. In todays world there is a lot of gap in what is stated & what is the reality .. hence one should leverage networks to get more clarity on the same first. Be clear regarding what you are getting into .. if you do decide, then you will find a way :)

-Keep in mind how you want to perceive: What’s your personal brand? -Do not be selective when building your network at the beginning. -Sort your contacts in an effective manner: who, where from, potential use, what you can offer, register contacts made, follow up…. -Care about people -Keep in touch without asking favors -Be subtle - Transmite energy, positivity Our ability to Connect is in reality what drives our professional sucess.

Durante uma transi??o de carreira executiva, identificar e alavancar redes informais é essencial. Realizo uma análise detalhada das conex?es profissionais existentes, explorando oportunidades em redes sociais, eventos do setor e grupos afins. Estabele?o relacionamentos autênticos, compartilhando meus objetivos de transi??o e buscando conselhos de maneira estratégica. Ao entender as dinamicas das redes informais, consigo identificar influenciadores-chave e oportunidades n?o convencionais. Utilizo essa inteligência para me posicionar de forma eficaz, ampliando meu alcance durante a transi??o de carreira executiva.

Map your existing network by taking inventory of who you know (who specifically plays a role in your career), evaluate them based on the following. Don't forget to expand your network based on who can play a role in your career (due to influence or another reason) but isn't currently in your network. - What drives them? - What value can you provide to them? - What value can they provide to you? - Status of relationship - Frequency of interaction - Their influence at your company / industry / space

Understanding who you know in different roles is a great way to start. It may be that someone in your network is able to help you see an opportunity where you might not have noticed one.Or they could help you identify strengths that you may not readily see in yourself. Even better, sharing your career journey with a person who has a different experience or perspective may help you get new ideas.

most people are hesitant to ask for help from their network. They either feel that asking for support, will make them appear needy or weak, or they feel that no one will help them. Nothing can be further from the truth The other mistake people make when reaching out is limit the outreach itself – they usually reach out only to people whom they think might help them, but the reality is that help can come from any quarter. Your network includes family (including relatives), friends, social networks, present and ex-colleagues, alumni (school/college), community (including where you live) and professional networks Also, don’t underestimate the power of strangers – I have received support on several occasions from people I did not know

Após a defini??o de objetivos, ser estratégico é chave. Olhar para sua rede como um ativo chave para construir conex?es. Mas, é importante n?o perder a espontaneidade e ficar aberto ao novo. Vejo muitas vezes as pessoas sendo t?o fo?adas no seu relacionamento que acabam se fechando para o aprendizado, para a troca e para a constru??o de rede no médio / longo prazos. Estudantes, pesquisadores, pessoas curiosas nos temas, todos tem alto potencial.

Mapping your network means also getting rid of the contacts that are not useful, based on some drivers: - common interests - common behaviours - common attidudes Who is not close to you as you are, very unlikely will support you

Not everyone is comfortable with such a strategic approach to networking. In fact to many that just feels “false” and “not genuine”. So allow me to suggest an alternative. Connect with as many people as you can with whom you have a common interest with. These are likely to be more genuine connections and you may build many friendships… Over time nurture these friendships and you will have a strong (and random) network that will stand you in great stead. This has also been my own personal experience

We often speak of networking in informal ways. Might this be a time to look at networking more formally, through the lens of network science. In network science, we know there are nodes of influence where we can gain leverage in networking with that node or, even more powerful, weak tie (weird name, sorry). We can then be more strategic in focusing on developing relationships with those who already have sizable networks.

Clients don’t realise how extensive and supportive their networks are. If you’re thinking about making a change, don’t hesitate to tell people you trust. Be clear on what you’re looking for. You’ll be surprised at the support and encouragement you get. I’ve always found good people want to help good people.

Expand your network strategically during an executive career transition by joining industry-related groups, both online and offline. Attend conferences, workshops, and networking events to connect with professionals in your target field. Utilize online platforms like LinkedIn to identify and engage with relevant individuals. Be proactive in seeking informational interviews and demonstrating genuine interest in others' experiences. Cultivate relationships gradually by offering value and showcasing your expertise. This strategic expansion can broaden your network, creating new opportunities and support during your career transition.

Research and Identify Key Players: Investigate industry events, forums, and social media to pinpoint influential figures. Understand their roles, expertise, and connections within informal networks. Engage Through Thoughtful Outreach: Initiate meaningful conversations with identified individuals. Share insights, seek advice, and offer assistance. Build authentic relationships to leverage informal networks effectively during an executive career transition.

An ex mentor that I once had asked me a question that I will never forget - "But did you do the effort first?" Why do you expect a positive reaction/immediate support from your network if you did not nurture your relationship with them and showed support first? Make meaningful relationships, offer authentic support and advises, be responsive when someone asks for your support, schedule regular check ins with your key network contacts...etc. Make it a meaningful connection!

What has been most helpful to me is identifying experienced professionals who can provide guidance and support during the career transition. I would strongly advise one to seek persons, mentors or advisors who have successfully navigated similar transitions or have extensive networks in his/her target industry. Being intentional with this approach ensures direction and focus. It also saves time.

Este punto es fundamental para acrecentar las redes, el relacionamiento en donde el valor de lo humano y profesional se hace presente para nutrir para el logro de los objetivos. En mi trayectoria laboral nutrir las relaciones a través de actos de networking, apoyo, asesoría me ha permitido fortalecer la confianza y ser recomendada por mi red profesional y personal.

Nurturing relationships means actively contributing to the relationships. Instead of going into networking relationships looking for opportunities to gain, consider approaching the relationships with a mindset to afford and provide opportunities. Establishing a reputation of connecting others and sharing opportunities demonstrates an authentic altruism is a leadership skill that is often sought in executive searches.

Agreed! Making the efforts required to build, grow, scale your professional network is mission critical. My advice is focus on private communities of like minded, SME’s. Connecting/sharing with other fortune based, enterprise level C-Suite/SLT’s will pay high returns(ROTI) time, invested. As far when should you have begun building authentic relationships… simple answer…yesterday… but it’s never too late. My mindset on building authentic/value driven relationships…simple metaphor: “Dig your wells before you are thirsty.” If anyone in next CXO Challenge? seeking Relevant/purposeful peer/peer networking. We can help. Greg Raymond CXOGLOBAL100???? Trusted, Executive Recruitment CIO, CTO, CDAO, CISO Critical Thinker’s Advisory

Network Assessment: Evaluate your existing professional network, identifying key contacts and assessing their relevance to your executive career transition. Consider the strength of your connections and their potential to provide insights or opportunities. Strategic Adaptation: Adapt your networking strategy by actively engaging with informal networks, such as industry events, online forums, and social media groups. Foster relationships beyond formal channels, leveraging diverse connections for valuable career insights and opportunities during your executive career transition.

There is an old saying that one's full time job while in transition is to find a full time job. And, what gets measured gets done. So, set some goals. How many phone calls will you make this week? How many emails will you send? How many people will you meet for lunch or coffee? Or, have a Zoom chat with. The reality is that networking is easier in 2024 than it was even five years ago. Set some goals and meet them.

Acho importante a participa??o em eventos presenciais. Uma vez que você tenha uma estratégia de carreira fica mais fácil escolher os eventos pois s?o muitos. Vez ou outra marco presen?a em eventos mais distantes do meu dia-a-dia. Fui convidada recentemente para uma apresenta??o de uma secretária do governo. Confesso que inicialmente tive dúvidas, mas fui mesmo assim. Pode dar errado? Sim , Pode dar certo? Sim.

Very often progressive organizations have transition coaches.it is useful to take guidance from such persons and leverage domain specific relationships

Add value to your network. When you connect with other people, think about what you can do for them rather than what they can do for you.

Remember that networking is a long-term strategy and requires continual effort to maintain and adapt. Building a relevant and powerful network is what makes the difference between potential and success. Don't wait the moment you need help to discuss with people. Your network will genuily support you if they have also received from you - it is always a give and take.