One thing I plan to do a lot of at the upcoming SHRM Annual Conference is networking. Sure, I intend to network with a beignet and maybe even a Sazerac Cocktail . . but, more importantly, I’m meeting with a whole lot of really great people.
One of the best books I’ve read about networking is Keith Ferrazzi’s “Never Eat Alone”. It’s kinda ironic that I read the book while traveling (alone) from a conference. But I digress.
Before I share my take-away from the book, let me first explain what networking isn’t:
- It’s not handing out your business card to everyone you meet
- It’s also not giving your resume to everyone you meet
- It’s not about calling to ask for favors
- It’s not something to cross off your ‘to-do’ list (as in “I networked today.”)
Networking is about building relationships. Let me say that again. Networking is about building relationships. And, that’s what the book talks about … how to build relationships.
How do you build relationships? For me, I think of listening, smiling, sharing, offering assistance, being helpful and connecting. Networking is about giving, not about getting.
What have you given to your network lately?
BTW, if you happen to be going to the SHRM Annual Conference, I’m giving a presentation on strategic planning called “Fail to Plan . . Plan to Fail” on Tuesday, June 30. You can read more about it (and everything else about the event) at the SHRM Conference Blog. Hope to see you there!
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