Networking from a place of service, of connection and curiosity, will always come full circle. Often, when you need it the most – if you have tended to your connections with care and a spirit of giving.
It might sound counter intuitive. Networking from a place of service? Giving rather than receiving?
YES.
As someone who recently left a 20+ year career grounded in the corporate world, I will share wholeheartedly that it will come back to you, full circle, when needed.
For the bulk of my career, I maintained a large, healthy networking community simply, and somewhat selfishly, because I like making deep connections with people. As a textbook extroverted introvert, I find it important, necessary, and productive to get to know the person behind the role, job, company, product. I need to know the human. More often than not, we share a hobby, special interest, favorite author, sports team, etc. Once I’ve made that connection, I can’t just turn it off like a light switch. As a result, it’s not uncommon for me to randomly schedule a virtual coffee with an individual I haven’t worked with in over 15 years – just to see how they are, catch up on personal interests, and ask how I can be of service.
It’s fun to listen and learn how everyone has grown and evolved in their careers over the years, and, increasingly our conversations turn into brainstorming sessions. Who do we know in a certain industry who might be a great warm introduction? What new product might be of interest to the other person? How can we help each other?
Just last month I connected with a former business partner who, after learning about my coaching practice and services, identified a natural synergy with one of his own company’s service areas where they had a gap. Not only was it a business win for both of us, but it is now an opportunity for us to connect on a more frequent basis. Double win!
The next time you have an opportunity to connect and network, try leading with, “How can I help you with what you’re doing today?”
The personal – and professional – opportunities, rewards, and benefits are endless.
