The Network Effect!
Krishnakumar Ramanathan
Managing Director and Group CEO S & S Power | Acrastyle | Hamilton Research and Technology | At the intersection of Engineering and Management lie infinite possibilities!
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The Network Effect! / 050, 27 Aug 2022
Through our shared history, networks have always played a vital role. From time immemorial, humans have always formed groups for common interests, for foraging, agriculture, settlements, etc. These were probably the earliest networks. Today, networks have evolved into the modern age, where they are even more relevant, and have become mission critical. We achieve varying degrees of success (or failure) based on the networks we have, and their effects upon us. Prof. Matthew O. Jackson in his book ‘The Human Network’ posits that networks define our social position, and that they determine our Power, Beliefs and even Behaviours. He says that to understand why people succeed or fail, we only need to look at their circle of friends (network). A variation of this theory is the popular statement that we are as good (or successful) as the average of people who are closest to us, since they wield influence and persuasive power over what we say, do or think. This is the basis for today’s article on The Network Effect. We look at the WHY (networks are important) and the HOW (can we build and nurture our network).
WHY are networks so important:
-?????????Keep us connected and grounded
We develop networks at various stages of our lives, and each one is a reminder of ourselves at these respective stages. Keeping in good touch – so easy these days – will keep us grounded always.
-?????????Give us support and mentoring
There will be difficult times in life, and during such times, having a network is of immense value. Also, to mentor us for crucial career decisions, our network can act as a sounding board, giving us different perspectives?
-?????????Keeps us alert to what is going on, changes and new opportunities
Large organisations have strong grapevines! A good network keeps us abreast of key news, alerts, and opportunities. We can therefore be better prepared with relevant information.
HOW can we build and nurture our network:
-?????????Invest quality time
Reach out to people who interest you within and outside your organisation. Build your network slowly and systematically. Nurture your network even when there are no ongoing topics, it should not be merely transactional
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-?????????Be genuine
Being genuine and transparent in interactions helps build the trust level in your network! And yes, it should always start with our self.
-?????????Remember to help
Any network is a two-way street, and we must be ready to help others out wherever we can. This helps strengthen the network.
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To summarise, building and nurturing a network is extremely important and can act as a catalyst in our professional lives (The Network Effect).
I hope you enjoyed reading this one, and as always, do leave your own stories and anecdotes in the comments section. Let us get a good conversation started!
Warm regards, Krishnakumar.
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Former Vice President -Head Import Export Customs, Siemens Ltd, Director General - Federation of Freight Forwarders Association of India (FFFAI ), IMC -Chairman -Logistics & Transportation Committee, Independent Director
2 年Excellent read , I have observed that due to Pandamic networking is changed and newer challenges are seen. Many people are losing their existing network at the same time some people have build new network which is helping them to develop new skills and opportunities. Keep on publishing such good articles which helps to explain in simple words
Director, Global Partner Program - Electrical Products, Siemens AG
2 年Wonderful KK, Its a pleasure to read your Blogs. Keep writing.
Business Unit Head - HV Motors & MV Drives at Innomotics India Pvt Ltd
2 年Superb well said sir. Thanks for sharing..
Protection, Control and Automation | Energy Storage | Hydrogen Energy
2 年Congratulations for 50th one, it was really good one! Looking forward for more articles and learning from your side. Thanks
A journey from self gratification to self fulfillment - live learning forever
2 年Congratulations KK. Great milestones indeed. Always enjoyed your thought provoking posts and there would be rarely an instance when I have not responded with my thoughts on the same. The article is much enlightening and the various techniques so well illustrated surely would be strengthening our commitment and conviction to build stronger relationships. ??