If you run your own business, you'llalready know that networking is more than a 'nice to do' - it's anessential. Networking can be one of themost effective ways of developing new contacts, sharing ideas and promotingyour business. But it's not an exact science and because of this, it's oftenleft more to chance. So what are the obstacles? Why do we put off networking? Well, lack of timeis usually one of the main reasons cited, along with the knowledge thatsometimes it can feel a little uncomfortable and at worst, appear self-indulgent. So how can we make networking aneasier and more acceptable use of our time and ensure we benefit from this essentialtool for business or career development? Here are three ideas to get started-
1. Make networking a habit. Develop anetworking plan to increase your networking activity and stick with it! Go forsmall, achievable steps. For example - updatingyour social networks weekly; attending a networking event every quarter; writinga monthly blog; or contacting clients you haven't worked with for 6 months. What you do and when you do it should bedesigned to give you realistic and regular actions. Having routine habitual commitmentsto networking will make it more of a process rather than an ad-hoc activity.
2. See what you can do for others. Actually, this is one of the most rewardingaspects of networking. Can you use yourcontacts to help and connect others? Maybe it is as simple as introducing oneof your clients to a supplier you use or vice versa. How can you supportsomeone in your network by praising their work or just by listening to an issuethey are working on? Whatever the outcome, always think about how you can helpothers. Once you get into this way of thinking,it may surprise you that others are only too pleased to return the gesture.
3. Be yourself. Peoplecan tell when you are genuinely interested or whether you are giving them the 'coldsales patter'! Whether it's writingblogs, sending emails or meeting people face to face, just be yourself andreflect in all these forms of networking, your own unique personality. Avoidselling and telling! Remember to be a goodlistener, ask open questions. A positiveand genuine communication style will help develop trust and interest; keyingredients for business relationships to grow.
Employers! There's so much youth talent out there! Withunemployment rising above 1.2 million for 16 to24-year-olds, this gloomy statistic presents a depressing picture for today'steenagers. Whether they leave college with a skill, or university with adegree; realistically what kind of future can they expect? Sowith this in mind, I just wish that everyone could have witnessed theenthusiasm and talent that a group of 16-17 yr olds recently demonstrated attheir Academy's 'Challenge of Management' event.
Working alongside local employers,the students discussed best practice management techniques; looked at theskills of entrepreneurs and delivered articulate and professional presentationson their experiences of shadowing managers in the work place. The confidence and abilities of thestudents impressed the employers - many of whom expressed their concerns aboutthe current employment prospects affecting youth in the UK. It's hoped thatEmployers everywhere will proactively consider opportunities they haveavailable for 16-24 yr olds. Real jobs with real challenges will not onlyenable our youth to independently contribute to society but will add fresh newskills and ideas to the workplace and ensure innovation and creativity for thefuture.
(The 'Challenge of Management' event was designed and deliveredby Sharon Halliday of People & Design)
Lots of plans and exciting possibilities for for 2012 so New Year's resolution is to keep the blogs coming ....Wishing you all a Happy and Healthy 2012 x
