In the past, I’d always said “networking” just like that…while using air quotation marks. It was something I just didn’t look forward to and didn’t enjoy. “Networking” seemed like a synonym for going to a party and having people look over my shoulder to find someone better than me to talk to. But alas, Charmelle Green opened my eyes to the truth at the Women’s Leadership Symposium. Apparently, and this was news to me, you don’t have to be a complete phony to “network”. So, if you’re like me and don’t enjoy talking to strangers for the sole purpose of using their status to increase yours, then keep reading!
4 reasons that networking is better than a hot poker in the eye…and other things I learned at the WLS
- When we approach someone at a seminar or happy hour, we should approach them because we genuinely want to know them…not because we want something from them.
- Be a worker. If we want people who are in positions of power to notice us, then we’ve got to be a step ahead…she says “get known” as a hard worker. I suppose we shouldn’t toot our own horns about how hard we’re working or else we’ll get the dreaded “brown noser” label.
- In terms of our resumes, we should talk about how we’re going to lead people, manage money, develop people…rather than only a list of accomplishments. Charmelle talked about how her experience didn’t necessarily reflect that she was qualified for the job she holds now. But there are commonalities among most leadership positions and that’s how we should sell ourselves. She says that we shouldn’t “let our resumes pigeonhole us”, but talk about transferrable skills.
- Reach out to people who have knowledge that you don’t have, which goes back to number one…genuinely wanting to know someone for who they are instead of who they can introduce you to. Awesome!
So, networking isn’t awful, it can actually be a genuine and authentic exchange that won’t leave you feeling like a used car salesman.
The other things I learned? Check them out below!
Part 1: 3 Steps To Becoming A Successful Leader
Part 2: These 3 Little Letters Could Hold The Key To Your Success As A Leader
Part 3: 3 Keys To Building Collaboration Within A Competitive Culture
Part 4: 5 Steps To Land Your Dream Job
Part 5: Leading Yourself: 5 Steps To Put Your Future In Your Own Hands
