How can you network effectively with people in different departments?

People truly appreciate values, especially when they find solutions to their problems. Our values can take the form of various content such as stories and posts. People value problem-solving, as it offers great value. If we aim to connect with individuals we admire, the initial step is making ourselves visible within their sphere. We can achieve this by becoming active in groups and clubs they're a part of. Engaging with their posts and starting conversations can help us identify the problems or desires they have. Then, we can position ourselves as the solution and network with them. This is how we genuinely provide value.

In my experience managing a team, I've learned that people appreciate respect for the value they bring, whether from top management or peers. During an early HVAC project in Bangalore, where most team members had only secondary education, I initially felt like an outsider. However, by stepping out of my comfort zone and seeking their assistance, no matter how small, and expressing gratitude with respect, I gained their favour. Treating them to chai at the end of each day symbolized my respect for their work. Their performance improved by 10%, showcasing the power of acknowledging people's value, as we naturally prioritize our own perspectives.

As a children's music teacher, establishing rapport can be challenging, given their unique world. In my first class with second-grader Shania, her skepticism about learning piano was evident. I paused and explained that we were going to create music, piquing her curiosity. She asked, "How?" I inquired about her favourite song, asked her to count 1, 2, 3, 4 while clapping, and then I played 'Jingle Bells.' Her eyes lit up with amazement. From that moment, I became her favourite piano teacher, and her engagement increased by 5%. This experience taught me that building trust and rapport often means giving people what they want. In Shania's case, it was the beloved tune 'Jingle Bells.' After all, who doesn't love 'Jingle Bells'?