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The Power of Networking: Building Professional Relationships
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Navigating the competitive business landscape requires strong professional relationships. With nearly two decades in Business Transformation and Operational Governance, I’ve experienced firsthand the transformative power of networking. Here’s what has worked well for me in leveraging connections to advance my career and drive organizational success.
Networking within your company is crucial. Building relationships with colleagues across departments can lead to greater collaboration and innovation. Many global companies have established internal social groups, some focused on empowering Women, others supporting LGBTQ+ and allies or raising awareness around disabilities…etc. These groups often organize events, providing opportunities to connect with colleagues who share similar interests or backgrounds. Engaging in these internal groups can help you build a supportive network, gain new perspectives, and enhance your visibility within the organization.
I have personally taken part in multiple events with Talent Acquisition teams. These events, such as job opening days, where talent acquisition teams are present in schools and universities, are excellent opportunities to connect with potential colleagues, mentors, and industry professionals. Additionally, I’ve had the privilege of facilitating IAmRemarkable workshops, which help me connect with individuals from multiple companies. These workshops and events are invaluable for building relationships and sharing experiences.
Leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn can significantly enhance your networking efforts outside the company. Many organizations also participate in external events, such as industry conferences and seminars. These events are excellent opportunities to connect and engage with these external networks, these are sources where experts provide insights into industry trends, new opportunities, and best practices.
There are also numerous platforms where you can connect via different communities. For instance, industry-specific forums, professional associations, and online communities offer avenues to build relationships with professionals beyond your immediate workplace. Participating in these communities can help you broaden your network, learn from others, and share your own experiences and expertise.
Maintaining your network, both inside and outside the company, is just as important as building it. Regularly check in with your contacts, whether it’s through a quick message, a coffee meeting, or a phone call. Show genuine interest in their work and offer your assistance when possible. Networking is a two-way street, and providing support to others can foster stronger, more reciprocal relationships.
One of the most powerful aspects of networking is the access it provides to diverse perspectives and expertise. Engaging with people from different backgrounds and industries can broaden your understanding and spark new ideas. This diversity can be a significant asset in problem-solving and decision-making, leading to more innovative and effective outcomes.
For leaders, encouraging a culture of networking within your team is essential. Create opportunities for team members to connect with each other and with professionals outside the organization. Encourage participation in internal social groups and external industry events and provide platforms for sharing knowledge and experiences. By fostering a supportive networking culture, you can enhance team cohesion and drive collective success.
While networking can open doors to new opportunities, it’s important to approach it with authenticity and integrity. Building genuine relationships based on trust and mutual respect is key to long-term success. Avoid transactional interactions and focus on creating meaningful connections that provide value to both parties.
The power of networking lies in its ability to build professional relationships that support career growth and organizational success. By engaging in internal social groups, participating in external events, leveraging social media, maintaining connections, and embracing diverse perspectives, you can harness the full potential of networking. This skill not only benefits your individual career but also contributes to a more connected and innovative business environment.
Stay tuned for more insights and stories as I share my journey and experiences in navigating the complexities of modern leadership.
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