The Value of Building Personal and Professional Networks: Cultivating Connections for Success

This week’s Corner Office is dedicated to my marvelous group of friends and family who I depend on for sound direction and advice. I will not name names “to protect the innocent” but you know who you are and how much I appreciate you.

When I was growing up, my family used to buy Reader’s Digest. I am not sure what it’s like today, but in the 1970s, in a family of 5 women, there was something for everyone – the short stories, the trivia, the puzzles, etc. One thing I remember was a column called “Quotable Quotes”. I don’t remember exactly when I read this quote “Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down.”?(attributed to Oprah Winfrey) but it stuck. In fact, even today, my best friend and I jokingly say, “I need you to take the bus with me”, whenever we want to ask a?favour. The essence of this quote is that we all need people we can depend on: those who will support us, advocate for us, provide invaluable support, guidance, and opportunities. And I mean in good times and in bad times.?

That group of people is called a network and they can be personal or professional or a mixture of both. Whatever the configuration, having a strong network can be a game-changer. It becomes a web of relationships that not only offer valuable support but also serve as a source of inspiration and opportunities. Moreover, when faced with adversity, a network of trusted connections can provide a safety net and a sounding board for your ideas and concerns. These connections become your confidants, providing valuable insights and perspectives to help you navigate through challenges and emerge stronger. By actively engaging with your network and nurturing those relationships, you position yourself at the forefront of opportunities, enabling you to make meaningful connections and take decisive steps towards your goals.??

There is also something to be said about the diversity of your network and the value of including people from across different dimensions. If your network is diverse, they in turn will expose you to diverse perspectives, cultures, and experiences, expanding your worldview and fostering personal enrichment. This will broaden your knowledge base, ignite creativity, and help you stay informed about emerging trends and best practices.?

A long introduction, I know, but let me cut to the chase about the topic for this week’s Corner Office. This week I am going to delve deeper into the ways in which cultivating personal and professional networks can contribute to your success, both personally and in your career. There is a lot to say on this topic but I am just going to focus on a couple of points. For one, I am going to explore strategies for building and nurturing meaningful connections followed by some tips for maximizing the value of your network.?You with me??Here we go.?

A first step would be to embrace the power of being proactive and genuine in building your network. You could, for example, reach out and connect with individuals who share your passions, aspirations, and dreams. If you don’t where, try networking events, professional organizations, and online communities that resonate with your field. These are the places where like-minded individuals get together to share knowledge, collaborate, and uplift each other.?

But remember, it's not just about attending these events or joining these communities; it's about being your authentic self and showing a genuine interest in the people you meet. Take the time to listen actively, ask thoughtful questions that show you care and want to know more. By doing so, you create a space where trust and mutual respect can flourish. Congratulations! You are on your way to building meaningful connections that will stand the test of time.?

Creating a network, however, is never a one-way street. Remember that you are dealing with people and nobody likes to feel used. You need to reciprocate. So seek out ways to provide value to others, whether it's sharing your expertise, offering a helping hand, or making introductions to influential contacts. Be the person who uplifts and empowers those around you. By doing so, you become a valuable and trusted connection. When you pay it forward and backward, others will be more inclined to reciprocate when you need assistance or opportunities in return.?

Additionally, while building connections is not a one-way street, it’s also not a one-time event. It order to nurture your network you to work further at staying connected by regularly reaching out and keeping all the members in your network top-of-mind. You can use all the tools and technological platforms available in today’s world such as email, social media, or just plain old regular phone calls, to check in, share updates, or offer congratulations on their achievements. You also have to try to remember important milestones or events in their lives and take the time to send personalized messages. By staying connected and demonstrating a genuine interest in their success, you foster strong, long-lasting connections that can provide support and opportunities throughout your career.?

Building networks not only takes time but it also takes effort so before I close, I would like to offer these 3 tips:?

• Embrace digital tools and platforms to enhance your networking efforts. Utilize professional networking websites like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field.?
• Aim to build a diverse network that includes individuals from different industries, backgrounds, and areas of expertise. Engaging with diverse perspectives not only enriches your own knowledge but also opens doors to new opportunities and innovative ideas.?
• After attending networking events or connecting with new contacts, make it a habit to follow up promptly.??

When networking is done well and includes diversity, follow up and reciprocity, the people you come to meet become your cheerleaders, guiding you through challenges and celebrating your victories. You'll uncover hidden opportunities that may have remained unseen without the power of your network, propelling you toward new heights of success. The connections you gain in your journey are invaluable and sometimes, you can get lucky an gain friends for life.?I have heard people say, “I don’t need any more friends.” But believe me, you always do.?