Building your network
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This article originally appeared in Training & Development magazine December 2017 Vol 44 No 6, published by the Australian Institute of Training and Development.
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Building your network
- 1. 12 | DECEMBER 2017 | TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT WWW.AITD.COM.AU I f you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with others. This proverb is what genuine networking is about. If you found yourself out of work, facing the challenge of starting a new business or realise it is time for a change of employer; what would you do? Do you have a professional network ready to help? Why you need a Network? Ive made the mistake of sheltering myself within a corporate haven; relying solely on my immediate colleagues. It wasnt until I ventured into my own business in 2011, that I realised how small my network was and the impact this had on my business, career and personal growth. Given the consistent level of economic uncertainty, I can say that everyone needs a solid, professional network to tap into when life changes or you want to make a change. What is Networking? The term networking has developed a bad rap over the years because of misuse. Im sure you have been to plenty of networking events or even been targeted online by someone who is clearly trying to build a shallow relationship with you to gain money, support or referrals. Yet networking remains one of the best ways to get ahead, with one-third of all new jobs and career opportunities discovered through the power of people. Therefore, by its very definition networking is really about establishing, growing and nurturing a wide web of contacts. The key is relationship building. Your network can be your greatest sales force, advocates and referral sources providing you develop sincere relationships and leverage your network appropriately. Successful Networking Everyone, regardless of their personality type and communication preferences, can become an outstanding networker but there are some golden rules to follow: Give to gain So simple, but so easily forgotten. Focus on helping others and look for opportunities to help them without trying to get something back. Network effectively It is not about how many people you know its about effectively helping others and delivering results to your contacts. Be sincere People know when they are being used. It is why you must build your network before you need it. Your contacts want to get to know you and see your sincerity in helping and listening to them without needing anything in return right away. Invest your time Networks do not suddenly appear. They require shared experiences, attention and nurturing. Consistently connecting with your network either face to face, via email, phone or another digital medium will see your connection blossom over time. Building Your Network The following steps will assist you in building your network. Identify your current contacts Create a list of all your contacts. Start with your inner circle: family, friends and neighbours. Next, list those you use for services such as your doctor, dentist, lawyer, hairdresser and accountant. Finally, list your professional contacts: current and former colleagues, subordinates, vendors and clients. Evaluate your network Think about the following, if you were made redundant, started a new business or suddenly quit your job, who would help you out? Then, develop a strategy and set some goals about who should BUILDING YOUR NETWORK BYLISAMAHAR
- 2. TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT | DECEMBER 2017 | 13WWW.AITD.COM.AU be in your network and who you want to start building a relationship with. Get involved Leverage your interests. Maybe you love swing dancing, running marathons, pet-sitting or volunteering in a homeless shelter. Being active in the community will have you meet like- minded people that you can solid build relationships based on common values and interests. Attend events and join organisations Some of my most successful career opportunities have come as a direct result of not only being a part of a professional organisation but getting involved in them such as the AITD Divisional Council. Remember important events and check-in Contact people on their birthday, congratulate a former colleague on a new position, send relevant articles or other helpful information. Get into the habit of staying in touch with those who have impacted your life. Surprise someone you have lost touch with by dropping them a note LinkedIn is the perfect platform for this. Build your communication skills Asking questions and active listening is one of the best ways to help people open up and create an interesting discussion. Study Charlie Rose and Christopher Hitchens (author, journalist) and watch how they guide conversations and allow guests to open up. Look for opportunities to offer referrals Helping to connect others where appropriate is very powerful and an integral part of great networking. Share your professional direction Share your goals, dreams and challenges with people you meetthis allows your network to consider how they can help you such as connecting you to others, offering advice and sharing experiences. Use technology Networking today has never been easier. While I love being able to attend an event or grab a coffee with a contact, almost every week I am networking via other mediums including LinkedIn, Facebook, Skype, phone and email. My network is local and global. With the help of technology, I continue to grow meaningful relationships worldwide. Lisa Mahar (@LisaMahar) is a Resume Writer and Job Search Coach with Meritude Career Services. She provides realistic information and practical skills to professionals to become more effective in their jobs search. Contact via mertide.com.au