Your Network Can Send You a Life Line!

The phrase for the week is "Invest in Your Network”

Thought I'd keep the investment theme going another week. On this day when taxes are due, I'd like to remind you that investments in your network are also due!

Too often I speak with young and senior professionals who invest little or no time in building and expanding their network. It is usually during a personal or professional crisis when the alarm sounds and they realize they have no network. They are all alone.

When you have built a thriving network, you’ll know. You are privy to information that hasn’t gone public yet or perhaps, never will. You are smarter than your peers because you have a body of knowledge and expertise that you can tap into with a quick phone call or email. You are the go-to person for counsel and information. People want you on the team.

How do you build or expand your network? Begin with securing a mentor (see March 11, 2019 blog post). It doesn’t have to be someone in your field or industry. Your mentor must have reached a level of success you aspire to attain and have excellent instincts.

Next, raise your social intelligence score. To build a network, you’ve got to get out of the office and navigate complex social relationships and environments. Quite simply, work on your people skills. Build credibility within your company and expand your network by working across the organization. Seek out opportunities to meet with executives in different departments. During these discussions, you may find projects where your expertise could be valuable. Here’s a chance for you to stand out and step up!!!

Having a plan is critical. Networks rarely just fall in your lap, it requires planning and identifying opportunities to connect and become a connector.

Finally, keep your network active by creating periodical touch points to remind people that you are connected in some way.

Join a group, volunteer, become a leader. Get connected!

I am building and expanding my network.