(GM) adsdsf, Want Career Success? Then You Need The Help Of A Network

Hi adsdsf,

Sometimes It's Not What You Know But Who You Know That Matters

The difference between 'getting by' at work and having a

successful career is not solely dependent on technical skills or

knowledge.

We all know colleagues who have strong 'people skills' and not the

strongest technical abilities but who nonetheless possess a distinct

position of leverage or influence at work.

These individuals are focusing on their strengths and use the power

of interpersonal skills and networking to their advantage.

If you want to climb the career ladder, you should too! And you can.

One should never underestimate the power of influence gained

through networking. The expansiveness and quality of one's social

and professional networks can significantly enhance career potential.

How can one go about building a supportive network?

This article will explore two practical and simple ways that, when

used strategically will yield the results you want to achieve.

The first things to do are collect and organise the business cards

from the people you meet so that you have their contact information.

Obviously collecting cards is just the first step.

Find reasons to send contacts an email, call for advice or to give

some information related to their interests. Don't do so incessantly,

but regularly - once a week or biweekly is appropriate. It generally

depends on the significance of your reason to contact them and

their past receptiveness.

Take the time to research their company website so you can make

relevant connections and based on 'inside track' information of

what's important to them.

Keep in mind that just as it is sometimes awkward to reconnect

with old friends or acquaintances after a period of not seeing one

another, the same is true in regards to building a network. The

longer you are out of touch with business associates the more

difficult it is to reconnect and get 'back in the loop'.

To help you make this a consistent priority, be strategic about

your contacts - jot down regular reminders in a planner or electronic

organiser so that you don't leave your connections to chance.

Another way to expand and strengthen your network is to invite

contacts to an informal gathering or information session that you

organise about topics of general or mutual interest. You may

facilitate the discussion yourself or bring in a speaker.

You could arrange such meetings at a local coffee shop or

restaurant - many will set aside a meeting room upon request.

On the invitation - whether it be by email, fax or regular mail -

outline the proposed agenda and indicate that 'coffee or tea is

provided - other menu items are at the cost of participants" -

unless of course you are able and willing to cover the entire bill!

This can be a relatively low-cost way of meeting with contacts and

sharing ideas.

This intentional way of meeting your contacts on a regular basis

strengthens not only the relationship you have with each of them,

but also allows for your contacts to meet one another - an

opportunity for which they will be grateful.

Such efforts are similar to making an investment that you hope

will grow at the opportune time.

These two ways of building your network - regularly connecting

with contacts and organising meetings or discussion forums

are simple yet effective career-enhancers.

Give them a try and get noticed at work!

Now go and Accelerate Your Effectiveness! ™

Andrew

Head Office
Worthing
Sussex
BN14 7SJ

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