Your networks determine your net worth
Sep 14, 2009
DID you know that relationships with other people determine your success? This explains the need to be a part of a professional network if you would like to succeed. Below are tips on how to choose networks and make them work for you.
DID you know that relationships with other people determine your success? This explains the need to be a part of a professional network if you would like to succeed. Below are tips on how to choose networks and make them work for you.
Make networks work for you
Set your goal for wanting to join a network. Is it to get a job, clients or to serve your community?
Select a professional network that is right for your industry, goals and interests. There are several professional, sectoral, community, religious, educational and business networks that you can choose from. Your guiding principle should be to choose and keep those networks which will add value to you and where your presence will be felt.
Find out which networks require membership fees and pay them if you intend to become a member.
Make and utilise your connections to capture your dream job or to get potential employees and clients by letting others know about your company.
Plan how to approach the network and how you will present yourself. The way you present yourself will determine how people view and deal with you.
Keep a constant presence in your network to become visible. However, keep in mind your goal for joining the network. Is it to come across as knowledgeable, humorous or professional, whatever the case, do not be a spectator member.
For contacts you do not use immediately, you still need to maintain them because they might be valuable in the future. Remember, “It doesn’t matter how many people you interact with, what matters is how you keep and nurture those contacts that leads to fruitful relationships.â€
The writer is an entrepreneur and business development consultant.
rehmah@centurymarketing.co.ug
Make networks work for you
Set your goal for wanting to join a network. Is it to get a job, clients or to serve your community?
Select a professional network that is right for your industry, goals and interests. There are several professional, sectoral, community, religious, educational and business networks that you can choose from. Your guiding principle should be to choose and keep those networks which will add value to you and where your presence will be felt.
Find out which networks require membership fees and pay them if you intend to become a member.
Make and utilise your connections to capture your dream job or to get potential employees and clients by letting others know about your company.
Plan how to approach the network and how you will present yourself. The way you present yourself will determine how people view and deal with you.
Keep a constant presence in your network to become visible. However, keep in mind your goal for joining the network. Is it to come across as knowledgeable, humorous or professional, whatever the case, do not be a spectator member.
For contacts you do not use immediately, you still need to maintain them because they might be valuable in the future. Remember, “It doesn’t matter how many people you interact with, what matters is how you keep and nurture those contacts that leads to fruitful relationships.â€
The writer is an entrepreneur and business development consultant.
rehmah@centurymarketing.co.ug