My network is my net worth. I’m not sure where this saying originated from however I do believe there is truth to it. The connections we make and the community we have around us is often where work, referrals and collaboration come from which in turn may create income. Networking whether in person or online is all social networking. I watched an old movie recently where at a party the matron was encouraging the younger girl to “circulate”. It could be called mingling or working the room but it shouldn’t be thought of as work. Socialising is meant to be fun and a way to make friends.
I’m currently following social media comments from some friends – who I met through networking – while they are in New York on their way to Washington to attend a conference. One attended the book launch of an Australian living in New York – who coincidentally I know through having met networking. In the photo background was a girl I’m connected to via social media. Another post was from the launch of Business Chicks a well-known network in Australia now just started in the US. Many of these members I follow and they follow me on social media. The world really is a small place.
Now I realise not everyone can go to New York and network. Attending numerous events can be expensive and time consuming. So why not just start local and attend a few functions to determine which ones suit you. Perhaps then just choose one or two where you feel comfortable to attend regularly or join. Contribute if you can and join the committee. You will further your connections and you will even make friends.
If you are working for an organisation you may feel that you don’t need to network. Your job is enough. But employment can be quite tenuous these days so it pays to build a network for perhaps those future work opportunities. In-house there are still ways to mingle. Get up from the desk and talk to somebody instead of sending emails all the time. Spend 10 minutes chatting to a co-worker during your lunch break rather than checking the iPhone. Just say hello to people – greet the newcomer – make them feel welcome.Strike up a conversation and ask people how they are, what their weekend was like. Being at ease in conversation will help when you are out at more formal networking events.
The other aspect of networking is of course social media. And that is a whole other strategy. The great thing about social media is you can get online for free and start conversations straight away. Explore the right networks for you and again perhaps just choose one or two to begin with and build up your community and expertise with that medium before moving onto another.
The most prominent social media sites are LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and You Tube. Colleagues, prospective clients or employers might find you through these sites – they will definitely check you out. Manage your activity on those sites well and understand the perceptions others may have through what you say. Express your unique ideas and talk up your skills. Comment on other business stories that might be appealing to you.
Think of socialising not only as a tool for your business or career but a way to form professional relationships and friendships.
In my free eBook the Power of Personal Public Relations, I write more about networking and using visibility to grow your personal brand. Download your copy here.
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Read last week’s blog Without PR Promotions What Happens?
Sue Currie is a personal branding specialist and director of Sue Currie Communications an agency providing an integrated strategy of personal and professional public relations solutions to help business owners boost their image, renown, brand and business. Through speaking, corporate workshops, and consulting, Sue helps businesses and individuals to stand out and shine.
