Don’t discount the “old boys network"

Don’t discount the “old boys network”.? Which in this case includes old girls as well.

I get it now that I am a member.

We’ve invested decades into our businesses, industries, relationships and have learned a thing or two along the way.? (said in a grand-fatherly tone)

As I’ve been re-connecting with people after the holidays it occurred to me how quickly people in my network that are around the same age are able to make things happen.??

Whether it be starting new ventures and needing resources, looking for new team members, or simply sourcing a trustworthy and capable person to provide a needed service, it makes sense that people who’ve been in business for 30+ years can potentially have access to a deeper rolodex. (what we used to call contact manager in the old days)

I’ve been happily surprised at calls with contacts that I haven’t spoken with for years who I have a shared history with 10 or 15 years ago who are willing to offer time and attention to projects that I am working on.??

People just starting out in their careers don’t have the same quantity and depth of relationships.? I recommend that they find ways to connect with some of us who still remember fax machines and pagers and when our favorite shows were on once a week.

And to my peers, be generous when someone reaches out via social media who you may be able to help by giving them access to your wisdom and network.? If you’re successful, someone more senior than you probably helped you out along your journey.

Stay tuned for my next post on how to leverage these relationships even further.