How To Network Like A Leader

I’m always on the lookout for articles about networking. Here are a few snippets that you might find interesting:

Being part of a network or group, in evolutionary terms, provides strong social bonds which help our survival. The good news is that we are hard-wired to form groups but there is a cost in terms of diversity. Tajfel and Turner’s 1979 seminal research on groups showed that to feel we belong to a group requires that we adopt the group norms, values and behaviours. Thus, we might have networks filled with ‘people-like-us’. The homogenous network may provide strong social bonds but may not provide the diverse perspectives and resources needed in turbulent times. The leader who builds a network and therefore has access to the most diverse perspectives will have the advantage.

Here are seven steps towards becoming a networked leader.

1. You already have the skills

Many struggle to network, blaming lack of confidence. But we all belong to and manage networks, whether family, friends, work, or hobbies. We forge mutually-trusted relationships, through common interests and curiosity; this is networking. Think of your professional network as developing friends in business, helping and learning from others.

2. When to network? Anytime, anyplace, anywhere

Networking for some is a last resort – done only when looking for, or forced to look, for a new role. However, a strong network provides support, feedback, insight, information, and resources that help you deliver in your current role and foster your personal development towards future roles. Build your network whenever and wherever you are meeting people with whom you genuinely connect.

3. How many contacts? Dunbar’s number

Robin Dunbar in his book ‘How many friends does one person need?: Dunbar’s number and other evolutionary quirks’, suggests 150 contacts are manageable. His view of hierarchy and levels of closeness is based upon the central premise that each of us has up to five people forming a central supportive clique around us, with increasing numbers of people radiating out from this central core. From this initial group of five, your levels of closeness increase by up to 15 people who form your sympathy group, then by up to 50 who form your active or close network and then by up to 150 who are in your personal network. When building your network, plan in these terms, to manage the frequency and type of contact at each level.

Want to know more? Head on over to the full article here for more ideas and perspectives. Afterwards, why not drop me an email to share your thoughts at [email protected]; or call me on 0467 749 378.

Thanks,

Robert