Networking is not just about exchanging business cards or adding contacts on LinkedIn. It is a valuable skill that can help you grow professionally, learn from others, and find new opportunities. In this article, you will learn how to network and build relationships at work in the context of employee engagement.
Networking at work can be highly beneficial, as it can provide you with insights and feedback from different perspectives and experiences, as well as access to resources and information that can help you solve problems and improve your performance. Additionally, networking can help you expand your visibility and reputation within your organization and industry, while also uncovering new possibilities and opportunities for your career development and learning. Moreover, networking can help you build trust and rapport with your colleagues, managers, and stakeholders.
If you seek out influential people as mentors, not only will they be a source of useful thought and knowledge but you could also be cultivating someone who is willing to support promote and champion you and your development.
Networking internally involves connecting with people within your organization, such as team members, peers, managers, mentors, and sponsors. To do this effectively, be proactive and reach out to those who can offer guidance, support, or collaboration. Demonstrate genuine interest in what they do, their goals, and their challenges. Offer your help and expertise when appropriate and show appreciation for their contributions. Additionally, seek feedback and advice on your work and career goals and act on it. Finally, follow up and maintain regular communication with your contacts.
Think about when you last shared a powerful insight with a colleague or when anyone else in your contacts shared with you? How do you use your current opportunities? Could you share more at the end of each week and before you start another week - even if it’s one thought or reflection or a thank you
Networking externally involves connecting with people outside your organization, such as clients, customers, suppliers, partners, competitors, and industry experts. To do this, you should identify and research the people and organizations that are relevant and influential in your field. Additionally, attending events, webinars, workshops, and conferences can help you learn and meet new people. Joining online communities, forums, and groups related to your interests and expertise is also beneficial. Furthermore, sharing your insights, opinions, and questions on social media, blogs, podcasts, and newsletters can help you build your network. Finally, asking for introductions and referrals from your existing contacts can help you expand your network.
Networking is not a one-time event, but a continuous process of building and nurturing relationships. To build relationships at work, it is important to be authentic and respectful in your interactions, consistent and reliable in your communication, supportive and positive in your feedback and recognition, open and honest in your expectations and boundaries, and flexible and adaptable in your approach and style. Additionally, it is important to avoid being self-centered or manipulative, gossip and criticism, and to embrace diversity and differences.
Be positive Give room for hearing other ideas and perspectives if you are about to introduce a new idea or a new way of doing things Prepare the ground and listen ….
Networking can be a great way to advance your career and learn new skills and knowledge. You can seek mentors and sponsors who can guide you, advocate for you, and connect you with opportunities. Additionally, you can ask for recommendations and referrals for jobs, projects, or collaborations that match your goals and strengths. You can also request informational interviews or shadowing opportunities to learn more about different roles, organizations, or industries. Furthermore, you can enroll in courses, programs, or certifications that can enhance your skills and credentials and ask your network for suggestions or discounts. Finally, you can participate in challenges, competitions, or hackathons that can showcase your talents and abilities and expose you to new ideas and people.
Here is how it has worked for me! - Always remember the folks with whom your paths have crossed. - Stay in touch frequently even if you aren't working closely with them. - Appreciate and provide constructive feedback honestly. - Be humble and help folks genuinely where possible. - Even spending few minutes sharing your experience is a great way.