Is Your NETworking?
Is Your NETworking?
Let’s begin by defining networking so we are all on the same page. Believe it or not, according to Webster’s Dictionary networking is "The act of process of informally sharing information or support, especially among members of a professional group." To expand on this, networking is who you know and more importantly who knows you!!!
Most of us are so busy that we feel like we don’t have time to network. So comes the question, why should you network?
1) To gain or share expertise or information
(For example — tips on human resources practices or best practices)
2) To increase exposure for company or self
(For example — what company doesn’t need increased exposure in this market?)
3) Develop contacts for future use
(For example — you never know when you may need to call a contact for a job or help)
4) Practice communications / presentation skills
(For example — practice makes even an extrovert more perfect)
Although most of us know how to network, because time gets the best of us, we often skip a critical step in the networking process. The generally steps are (which don’t necessarily fall in this order ever time):
1) Brainstorm what YOU know
You do know something. Think about what others compliment you on. You may even want to write it down and review it later for an ego boost and reminder of what your expertise is.
2) Identify who you know
Consider any affiliations you may have that could help you like a human resources association, previous co-worker, or even a neighbor.
3) Identify what you need
In the human resources profession, we often needs tips on how to implement an HR activity, referrals for those hard to fill positions, or just looking for your next job.
4) Identify how you will get it
What is going to be the best avenue for you to get what you need? Is it going to be by going to the next association meeting? Sending a correspondence vie email or mail to your network? Directly calling select contacts?
5) Do it
This is the step that is often skipped. If you have plans to go to an association meeting (to network), don’t just go but go on-time (or a few minutes early) so you can take advantage of the time to network plus don’t run out the minute the meeting is over – network.
6) Take notes
We can’t remember everything! Always take notes after a networking opportunity. This may mean writing a physical description of the person on their business card or just notes about what you talked about or what you can follow-up with them about.
7) Follow-up
No matter what, always follow-up. You should even follow-up if it is just to say thank you for the opportunity to talk at the meeting. You never know when that individual you just met may be a key to something you need in the future. Believe me, they will remember you if you take the time to follow-up.
8) Track results
Develop a system to help you track your network. Some folks like to track their network in a rolodex or business card holder. Others use technology to track their network contacts in the email manager (i.e. Outlook). It really doesn’t matter as long as the system works for you. Be sure your system helps you find: a person, contact information, how you know the person, when you last spoke to them, etc.
9) Reciprocate
Don’t always be on the receiving end or your network will quickly dry up. Be sure you are also giving as much as your network is giving to you. Remember, what comes around goes around.
With the basics under your belt, you next need to brainstorm where you can begin networking. Some ideas include:
- Join a local and national human resources association but more importantly go to the meetings on-time and GET INVOLVED!
- Participate on various chat boards and listservs
- Get involved with local affiliations (i.e. Chamber of Commerce, Roundtable meetings, Manager groups)
Bottomline, networking takes place anytime and anywhere. Networking requires you to give and receive expertise or information. By effectively networking, you will absolutely reap the benefits both now and in the future. So always be prepared to network. This means you should never leave home without a business card…
Is Your NETworking - To learn more about this author, visit Robin Throckmorton's Website.
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Many of us would immediately answer yes to the question "Is Your NETworking?" But do you realize what networking really is? Do you understand the value that can be gained by networking? Do you do the appropriate preparation prior to a networking event? Do you follow-up after meeting a potential network contact? What are some resources available to help promote your networking opportunities? Let’s find out...
Let’s begin by defining networking so we are all on the same page. Believe it or not, according to Webster’s Dictionary networking is "The act of process of informally sharing information or support, especially among members of a professional group." To expand on this, networking is who you know and more importantly who knows you!!!
Most of us are so busy that we feel like we don’t have time to network. So comes the question, why should you network?
1) To gain or share expertise or information
(For example — tips on human resources practices or best practices)
2) To increase exposure for company or self
(For example — what company doesn’t need increased exposure in this market?)
3) Develop contacts for future use
(For example — you never know when you may need to call a contact for a job or help)
4) Practice communications / presentation skills
(For example — practice makes even an extrovert more perfect)
Although most of us know how to network, because time gets the best of us, we often skip a critical step in the networking process. The generally steps are (which don’t necessarily fall in this order ever time):
1) Brainstorm what YOU know
You do know something. Think about what others compliment you on. You may even want to write it down and review it later for an ego boost and reminder of what your expertise is.
2) Identify who you know
Consider any affiliations you may have that could help you like a human resources association, previous co-worker, or even a neighbor.
3) Identify what you need
In the human resources profession, we often needs tips on how to implement an HR activity, referrals for those hard to fill positions, or just looking for your next job.
4) Identify how you will get it
What is going to be the best avenue for you to get what you need? Is it going to be by going to the next association meeting? Sending a correspondence vie email or mail to your network? Directly calling select contacts?
5) Do it
This is the step that is often skipped. If you have plans to go to an association meeting (to network), don’t just go but go on-time (or a few minutes early) so you can take advantage of the time to network plus don’t run out the minute the meeting is over – network.
6) Take notes
We can’t remember everything! Always take notes after a networking opportunity. This may mean writing a physical description of the person on their business card or just notes about what you talked about or what you can follow-up with them about.
7) Follow-up
No matter what, always follow-up. You should even follow-up if it is just to say thank you for the opportunity to talk at the meeting. You never know when that individual you just met may be a key to something you need in the future. Believe me, they will remember you if you take the time to follow-up.
8) Track results
Develop a system to help you track your network. Some folks like to track their network in a rolodex or business card holder. Others use technology to track their network contacts in the email manager (i.e. Outlook). It really doesn’t matter as long as the system works for you. Be sure your system helps you find: a person, contact information, how you know the person, when you last spoke to them, etc.
9) Reciprocate
Don’t always be on the receiving end or your network will quickly dry up. Be sure you are also giving as much as your network is giving to you. Remember, what comes around goes around.
With the basics under your belt, you next need to brainstorm where you can begin networking. Some ideas include:
- Join a local and national human resources association but more importantly go to the meetings on-time and GET INVOLVED!
- Participate on various chat boards and listservs
- Get involved with local affiliations (i.e. Chamber of Commerce, Roundtable meetings, Manager groups)
Bottomline, networking takes place anytime and anywhere. Networking requires you to give and receive expertise or information. By effectively networking, you will absolutely reap the benefits both now and in the future. So always be prepared to network. This means you should never leave home without a business card…
Is Your NETworking - To learn more about this author, visit Robin Throckmorton's Website.
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Anne BarrAnne Barr has over 26 years experience in sales and marketing, six years as a franchisee. She has assisted over 367 business owners and purchasers to achieve their goals in career change, transition and exit strategy. She holds the designation of Certified Franchise Executive from the International Franchise Association, Certified Business Intermediary from the International Business Brokers Association and Board Certified Broker from the Texas Association of Business Brokers. Anne is active in professional organizations, networking groups and volunteers for non-profit entities. As owner/operator of four successful businesses, Anne has proven people skills and enjoys helping clients find the right "fit" in business ownership. Visit www.FranchiseOpportunitySpecialist.com for more information about me and my company. - Visit Anne Barr's Website |
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