Networking
One thing I plan to do a lot of at the upcoming SHRM Annual Conference is networking. Sure, I intend to network with a beignet and maybe even a Sazerac Cocktail . . but, more importantly, I’m meeting with a whole lot of really great people.
One of the best books I’ve read about networking is Keith Ferrazzi’s “Never Eat Alone”. It’s kinda ironic that I read the book while traveling (alone) from a conference. But I digress.
Before I share my take-away from the book, let me first explain what networking isn’t:
- It’s not handing out your business card to everyone you meet
- It’s also not giving your resume to everyone you meet
- It’s not about calling to ask for favors
- It’s not something to cross off your ‘to-do’ list (as in “I networked today.”)
Networking is about building relationships. Let me say that again. Networking is about building relationships. And, that’s what the book talks about … how to build relationships.
How do you build relationships? For me, I think of listening, smiling, sharing, offering assistance, being helpful and connecting. Networking is about giving, not about getting.
What have you given to your network lately?
