Networking- the new currency

Ever heard of the phrase, “Networking is the new Currency?” You probably have. Studies show that there are direct effects of networking on career success; the question is, are you going about it the right way? Are you not even bothering at all?

In addition to business expansion and innovation opportunities, networking if done correctly, help you connect with new mentors, business partners and even sponsors. 

Here are some pointers to help you build a strategic network:

Be intentional about it

To be intentional about networking you need to envision the future. Plan how to sell your ideas to individuals and position yourself for the opportunities you’re looking for. Know what information and resources you need to turn your ideas into reality and exploit the new relationships you have made. Hard work? Yes it is! It requires time and attention, in and more importantly, out of the office.

 Network with engines not anchors

Dr. Ivan Misner, founder of Business Network International (BNI), states that there are two types of people in a network the engines and the anchors. Engines are “positive and supportive individuals” who are solution-focused. They are always willing to talk through the challenges of any situation, with a positive end in mind. These people motivate us and help us be our best selves. On the other hand, have you ever left a discussion, feeling like absolutely foolish for conceiving an idea without thinking through all the possible problems? Chances are, the person you were speaking to, is  an anchor. Anchors tend to be negative, argumentative, and obsessed with the problem. They usually have no real solution in mind. They are weights. Lay them aside.

Networking vs. Socializing

Ladies love chatty relationships. It’s nice to catch up on each others personal affairs, but, not all your meetings and network relationships should be so casual. Socialising involves meeting and interacting with people for pleasure, while networking, involves interacting with people to exchange ideas and contacts. Networking is focused on the furtherance of ones career. Knowing the purpose for your network helps you control the direction of the relationship.