Be Human, Not Transactional

I have received more emails than usual in the last couple of months.

These emails have one thing in common— the senders request something. I am not saying reaching out for help is bad, but it can be better.

When I landed a job through a network earlier in my career, I didn’t realise that a relationship would end with a job offer. My focus was to help the other person. I reached out intentionally to help others and grow my network.

Instead of reaching out and making a request, I looked for ways to help the other person. This simple activity was more rewarding than I thought, as I landed a job because I helped someone.

After I landed this role, it became clear that many professionals don’t grow their network because they are transactional.

Here are some tips to help you get the best of others and stand out when networking.

#1. Be Intentional In Your Conversations

When reaching out, you must be intentional about it.

Professionals are very busy, and you want to ensure your message ends with a call to action. This could be just wanting to learn from the person or grow your network.

#2. Look Out For Opportunities To Help

This is where many professionals fail.

Instead of being transactional and waiting for the other person to help you, you can find opportunities to help them.

As professionals, we love people who look out for us and genuinely care about our interests.

Be human, not transactional.

3#. Go After Their Needs

I once spent the weekend trying to resolve an issue my network faced. Once I solved the problem, I sent it to them, and they were happy.

This simple act of service made them my career evangelists, and they, in turn, helped me land a job opportunity.

#4. Put Others First

No matter where you are in your career, you can help others.

You don’t have to be Bill Gates or own a foundation to help others. Start where you are, use what you have and do what you can.

Putting others first can go a long way in helping you achieve your career goals faster. It will open many opportunities for you and help others trust you even more.

Final Summary

Most people are after what they can get.

Be different by putting others first.

Be human, not transactional.

Whenever You Are Ready, Here Are Other Ways I Can Help You Advance Your Career:

• Need specific career guidance? Book a call and speak to me one-on-one. I will provide as much clarity as you need to advance your career.
• Need data analytics career mentoring? Work with me one-on-one to achieve your next career goal.

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