Re-posted from IAEE Young Professionals
The Power of Networking
August 17, 2008
The Power of Networking
by Jeanavive Marie Janssen; IAEE YP Chair.
Networking is a tool being utilized everywhere. People aren’t always aware of the full potential and benefits, but we do it everyday. I hear people sharing info with each other about their work, where to grab some food, what books are good and other resources.
Over time I have earned myself the nick name TheNetworkGirl, and I have continued to pursue this in various endeavors. I am not an acclaimed expert on the subject (yet), but it has worked for me time and time again. So, I thought I would contribute my thoughts on networking.
How can you harness the power of networking? First, you have to be consciously aware of what you are looking for. Take a moment; give your self some time to think about what you are looking for…A new place to live? A new job?…Then imagine finding what you are looking for. Have a full mental picture.
Once you have this image in your mind something happens, you become more aware of what’s around you in relation to what you are looking for. Time and time again I will hear conversations on the street, at parties or work, and I will hear ‘buzz’ words that draw my attention in regards to things I am looking for or have interest in. And me, being “TheNetworkGirl”, I have no problem going up and saying, “Hey, I over heard you…” and BAM! I have just homed in on a new connection, resource and maybe even a new friend.
You may not be totally prepared to go up to strangers but you can also begin this process within your own group of contacts. Talk about what you are looking for to everyone you know. Don’t be shy, everyone does it to a degree and it is very effective life tool. Make a list of everyone you know, give them a call, send them a note, or an email. This is a great way to ensure you are keeping in contact with friends, and reciprocate by asking them what they are looking for. Perhaps they are actually looking for YOU! But didn’t know you had what they have been looking for.
Networking is definitely not a selfish pursuit. Eventually your skills will expand. When you are out and about you begin to over hear conversations and notice things for your friends too. That is what happened to me. I have amazed my friends and colleagues. They would briefly mention that they where trying to find someone to do something and BAM! I would be contacting them the next day with a lead and introduction.
Every day we come in contact with so many wonderful people with hundreds of resources, and now with the Internet it is truly amazing how small the world really is in its vastness. Are you prepared to reach out and make a new connection today?
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