The Untold Networking Techniques That Will Change Your Life
In the realm of career advancement, networking holds a pivotal role. Yet, it remains a mystery to many, often leading to wasted time and energy. We invite you to uncover these exclusive insights and leverage them to fuel your career growth.
Strategy
Effective networking for career advancement calls for a strategic approach. Begin by identifying your short-term and long-term goals. Then, think strategically about who can help you reach these goals. Your network should include potential mentors, sponsors, and key stakeholders who can provide different functions for you.
Remember, it’s not about the quantity, but the quality of your network. Include people who can provide insights about workplace dynamics and politics, and those who can serve as connectors, introducing you to others you want in your network.
Intention
Once you’ve identified your goals and potential contacts, be intentional about your networking activity. Dedicate time for networking as part of your work week. Block out specific times for coffee or lunch meetings, and honor those time slots.
Be selective about after-work networking events. Evaluate each event carefully, considering the speakers, the agenda, and the attendees. Join associations that align with your overall goal.
Diversify
A diverse network extends your reach and information. It should include people from different departments, functions, roles, and generations. Your network should also go beyond your current company to include industry colleagues, former college alums, and previous coworkers.
Don’t hesitate to reach out cold to people who can open doors for you. Request a meeting to learn more about their work. People usually enjoy talking about themselves and their work.
The Art of Reciprocity
The strongest relationships are mutually beneficial. Think about how you can add value and help your contacts reach their objectives. Start networking conversations by learning more about what other people do and their challenges.
Connect the dots and communicate how you may be able to assist them based on your value proposition. Offering to help others makes it easier to ask for a favor in return.
Consistency
The best networkers stay connected to their contacts over time. They follow up and look for ways to continue to add value. This could be a periodic check-in, forwarding an article, or sharing information about an upcoming event.
Keep your network alive by staying connected. Find ways to inspire feedback or stimulate conversations around topics they would find interesting.
Visibility
Visibility is key in networking. Devise a plan to gain visibility and credibility with potential mentors and sponsors, either directly or through others in your network.
Remember, it’s not just about who you know, but also who knows you. Make sure your work and your value are visible to your network.
The Reach Out
Reaching out to others, especially when you don’t need anything, keeps your network vibrant. It could be as simple as checking in, sharing an interesting article, or congratulating them on a recent achievement.
Remember, networking is not just about taking, but also about giving. Always look for opportunities to help others through connections and new opportunities.
Consider networking part of your work week and always look for opportunities to help others through connections and new opportunities. Your career growth depends on it.
