Young Professionals! Its Time to Network! ... Because your Net WORK = your Net WORTH.
The value of professional networking is rarely outgrown or overstated. The quality of your life is the quality of your relationships. Here are 7 networking tips that will improve your net worth:
1. Cast a wide net - Touch base with a wide breadth of people, including former high school teachers, community and religious leaders, and even your friends' parents. Networking functions are another great way to meet new contacts.
2. Be a yes man (or woman). - That means saying yes to as many networking opportunities as possible. That Kiwanis inter-clubbing in another parish on a Tuesday night? Make it happen. A random coffee invite from an old co-worker or classmate? Be there.
3. Be likable. It goes without saying that prospective employers and clients are probably more likely to hire someone they like. Being polite and on time is a start.
4. Be proactive. The only way you can be sure opportunity knocks is to go calling - literally. Call, not pest new contacts. Put the ball in their court.
5. Be a follower. Remember when we suggested being likable? Another way to do this and create a positive impression is to follow those you aspire to become. Follow them on Twitter. Follow their publication. Follow their careers on LinkedIn or in the news. Follow them in every professional capacity you can think of, and then let them know about it.
6. Be polished. Remember first impressions are lasting. This isn’t limited to the outward appearance. It also extends to proofreading every email you send; being polite even three hours into a painfully boring meeting and not drinking too much at that business mixer. It also means not making bad decisions elsewhere, especially on social media.
7. Recalibrate now and again. Your current network may not always be the right one: As you grow and achieve more, so should your professional circle. Success requires replacement.
Contributed by Kiwanian Rishelle-Ann Watson.
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