Networking
Effective Networking
“If someone listens, or stretches out a hand, or whispers a word of encouragement, or attempts to understand , extraordinary things begin to happen.” – Loretta Girzartis
Many individuals shy away from networking because of misconceptions about what ‘networking’ is. Effective networking is not ‘schmoozing;’ it is not getting into the ‘in crowd.’ Everyone networks all the time; they just don’t always recognize it for what it is. Asking a neighbor to recommend a handyman is networking!
Networking is essential in today’s job market. In today’s ‘internet’ age, the ‘line of least resistance’ is appealing (see a posting, hit ‘send’ to apply). It doesn’t take long to find out that this process doesn’t work. The problem here is that there are hundreds of responses to posted positions. The probability of success is low.
So, what is networking?
Networking is gathering information by establishing relationships with individuals who:
- Are knowledgeable about an industry or company;
- Are known and respected within their ‘sphere of influence;’
Most executives secured their position through networking and are willing to ‘pay it forward’ by helping other executives achieve their goals.
Eagle Wing Strategies consultants work closely with clients to:
- Eliminate the ‘mystery’ of networking;
- Identify appropriate networking individuals;
- Develop effective strategic approaches that result in open and direct dialogue with these individuals;
- Conduct ‘informational’ meetings that both gains useful information and leaves a positive, lasting impression.
Networking has become a way of life for those who achieve their professional goals. Numerous books have been written about how people have advanced in their careers because of the direct and indirect relationships they have developed in the past. Networking is not a mysterious penetration of the “in” crowd. For some people, the idea of networking is scary; for others, it is mystifying. It doesn’t have to be either!! By understanding some fundamental principles, you can identify, build and develop effective and mutually beneficial networks. Because many decision makers have been helped through networking themselves, they are often more willing to help others in their efforts; they just need to be approached in the right way.
In the eyes of Eagle Wing, networking is a search for information. It is what you learn and what you do with that insight that leads you to opportunity.
Eagle Wing Strategies shows its clients how to construct a networking strategy, conduct effective informational network meetings, apply the various Internet business social networking tools that can lead you to a deeper understanding of the marketplace, a company, or specific executives. These networking tools and strategies can provide valuable information to use in effective correspondence and interview meetings and, therefore, finding the ‘right match’. They can be helpful in reaching a key decision maker.
