Tip: Time is limited so put your networking efforts here!
If you have only a limited amount of time to reach out to people beyond your co-workers (your operational network) or answering your Mom’s calls (your personal network), then focus on your strategic network.
Strategic networks consist of highly connected or influential people, usually in more senior positions, who are gracious about sharing their connections. These strategic connections can be challenging to find but crucial for career growth.
If you have a hard time figuring out who those people might be for you, this graph may be helpful.
Once you have identified people in your strategic network, it’s time to start paying more attention to them. Follow what they follow on social media, comment on their posts or tweets. Go to events where they will likely be. Reach out in a meaningful way. Can you do something for them? If they chair a volunteer board, can you ask about opportunities to sit on committees or on the board?
If your strategic network is lacking, it’s time to start identifying potential candidates.
SHEPA LEARNING COMPANY WEEKLY POSITIVE NETWORKING® TIP
No. 1078, September 4, 2024
By Gayle Hallgren and Judy Thomson