Never Stop Networking

One thing I have learned this past year is the power of networking. When we work full time we don't focus on it. We are so wrapped up in our daily lives, putting out fires and managing our workload, networking falls to the bottom of our "to do" list. It doesn't belong there!

Yes, networking takes time. You need to find groups that are of interest to you, you need to find time during your day or even during your evening, to attend meetings. You need to defend to your management why this time is important and the ROI for the lost company time. You need to put your "face on" and be upbeat and excited about being there...it can be exhausting. But you know what, you never know who you are going to meet at one of these meetings. It could be your next employer, or the neighbor of your next employer or the mentor you have been needing that you haven't yet met. I remember sitting in the parking lot at one of the first networking events I decided to attend. I didn't know one person who would be there, I didn't know if they would welcome me to the group, I didn't know if this was going to be the "right" group for me. As I sat there in my car, I watched others go in the building and said to myself..."what do you have to lose?" Go in, be excited about being there, meet new people and see where it takes you. You can always leave!!

Networking groups are in place just for that...to help others network and share ideas. I haven't been to one meeting where I didn't feel welcome or where there wasn't some value added--a new contact, a new idea or a new suggestion for other groups. I have met people who have heard my story and remember me at the next meeting. I have met people who have helped me grow and connect me to people they know. And in the true spirit of networking, I have done the same thing for them. I am also involved in networking through twitter and other social networking groups. Not "in person" meetings, but still I am developing relationships with people and learning and growing and sharing ideas----all important even if not face to face.

Networking doesn't always have to occur in a "formal" setting. In any setting you are in, make the effort to get to know the people around you. It can be at the Saturday soccer game, at the gym or even with neighbors. You will regret that you didn't make the time to develop contacts and build relationships that will help you grow both personally and professionally. You never know when you may need to contact a member of your network for some help or you will be called on to help someone else. Never stop networking even if you have a full time job and busy life--put it at the top of your list!