#1 The Benefits of Networking

Networking sometimes has a negative connotation. I think it’s because many of us witness colleagues seemingly spending more energy schmoozing, than working. As professionals, we need to look past those perceptions and understand the benefits of building a strong network of people. These individuals typically have something in common with you – same company, similar responsibilities, overlapping interests, etc. Because of this connection, it should be natural to start a conversation, uncover other areas of interest, and continue building the relationship.

Having a strong network will help you in the corporate environment for sure, especially if you work for a large company. I certainly leaned on my connections for that reason, but it has been crucial as I move into my post-corporate, independent consulting job. I firmly believe it is worth the effort to create a professional (and sometimes borderline personal) network of people. Here is why:

• It allows you to go hear different perspectives from different vantage points. Not all teams or groups or business units are the same, each has a unique flavor. The more you talk to people outside your immediate work group, the larger net you cast to capture insights.
• You can insights related to work deliverables, like feedback on strategies or documents. You might want to hear from people with a different coaching style or problem-solving approach. Most common is the desire to seek perspective on professional development, understanding different career paths or learning from the experiences of others. Often these specific people become Mentors.
• Some people in your network should also serve as ‘connectors’. In situations where they don’t have the right experience, maybe they know people that do.
• I also hope you are lucky enough to find those gems in your organization that serve as “work friends”. These unique relationships are critical! They are people that understand your daily experiences but provide a safe place to be emotional, vent, get personal advice, etc.

?If you limit your connections only to those that you organically work with daily, you will miss a vast opportunity to learn from people close by. It does take a bit of work to build a solid network but let me share my experience on how to do this in a balanced and productive way.

I received great advice from a mentor about 10 years into my career. He understood I was hesitant because I felt like I would be “wasting” people’s time if I scheduled a meeting “just to network”. But he suggested I set up time with a couple VPs, and ask for input on one specific question, just one. While this sounds simple, I know execution is hard. But after thinking just a few minutes, I became comfortable with my plan. I decided to share a draft of a document with 2 people. I reached out via email asking for 30 minutes and kept the note simple and straightforward. After a 1 sentence introduction I asked if I could schedule 30 minutes to (1) Learn about their path at the company and how their current organization was organized, and (2) Ask for feedback on a particular section of content (because I knew they had relevant experience).

?This approach would allow you to get to know the other person and receive input on your work from a different point of view. If these two conversations are a positive experience, try two more. You will be surprised how quickly you will find your own style and will quickly see the value.

?The risk: You will sometimes run into someone that doesn’t want to make time in their schedule. Don’t be discouraged, just move on. I promise that you will find many, many more people that are willing and even excited to meet with you, share their experience, one time or recurringly.

?Lastly, let me know share how I leverage my network today:

1.????? When I left my steady, corporate job, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do next, but was fortunate that I had time to figure it out. Because I enjoy talking ?? I turned to my network. I set up virtual and in-person chats with 20+ people. Some I knew well, others I didn’t, but I was interested in what they were doing or an experience they had. Only a couple never responded but the rest provided very insightful guidance and ideas about this next phase I was entering. I learned about potential areas of work I would have never considered, many introduced me to others based on what they heard me talk about, and some even are partnering with me on current work!

2.???? Now that I am clearer on what I want to do – I often call people that have gone down this path before. I appreciate their time when I have my basic questions about finance or taxes. But collectively they also help brainstorm ideas or share their experience with potential clients/partners. Some get more calls from me than others, but I am so grateful!

3.???? Which brings me to the last point. Don’t be stingy with your network. I talk with many small business owners looking for guidance in certain areas. I share my experience and connect them with others – giving back is so rewarding.

?If you have questions about doing this yourself, or are hesitant, I would be happy to schedule a few minutes and share some encouragement. For those that also see value in having a professional network – can you please share your experience and advice? I would love to see your comments below.

Thank you to those that are following this newsletter! Next month’s topic: #2 Acknowledging the Rules of the “Game”.

9/4/2023 #advicematters #mentorship #takeitorleaveit