Whether you’re trying to earn more where you work now,seeking a better job, or thinking about a business of your own, networking can often be the key to success(and more earning power). having friends,colleagues,coworkers,and even superiors who will talk and work on your behalf is one of the most important elements in enhancing your earning power.
When there is tight competition for a single or limited number of promotions,the difference is usually made by the individual with the best networking skills. Moreover, that holds true whether you want to get a better job where you work now or find a better job in another company or even another business field altogether. Here are some networking ground rules:
Build better balance. because networking is most effective when your relationships are evenly balanced, it is very important to acknowledge weaknesses in your networking “inventory” make sure you build relationships with experienced advisors who can help your career.
Add more names. actively seek fresh channels for meeting new people.If there is someone in your company whom you don’t know but whose friendship would bolster your network, find a common third-party contact-someone you both know who could provide an introduction . Or simple take the initiative yourself.
Be “worthy” of your network. Of course, you shouldn’t trade only on your contacts. But there is absolutely nothing wrong with developing and using relationships with others to help your career if you possess the qualifications to merit a promotion.
The Three Rules of Smart Networking
The message here is very simple-do something for someone else in the hope that thee favor will someday be returned.
To boost your chances that networking efforts will pay of, follow these effective steps:
Rule 1 List the relationships you have now. According to experts, there are essentially three main types of business relationships that most people need:
Task-based relationships with co-workers
Advice relationships with people who receive advice from you or with people who provide advice to you.
Informal socializing relationships with anyone in the workplace with whom you have a comfortable,easy-going relationship.
Your goal should be to build enough relationships to guarantee a strong mix of all three.
Rule 2: Widen your network. While it not helpful to “collect” friends just for the fun of it, it certainly helps to have a wide network of substantial relationships with people possessing varying strengths and talents. Then when you do need help, your network will include someone ideally suited to offer the necessary assistance. You can never have too large a network. While it takes more time and effort to maintain larger number of relationships, the effort usually pays off in times of need.
Rule 3: Build relationships for the long-term. People who sense that you are befriending them only because you have short-term need for their support will remember you as an opportunist when, down the road, you ask them to help you get a new job. Focus on cultivating long-term relationships. To do this, you must always be prepared to give as much, or preferably more, than you take. Try to prove to the other person that you are a valuable companion-that you represent a source of support and assistance whenever it is needed. Be prepared to give of yourself whenever the need arises.