Ask not what you can get from your network but rather what you can offer to your network. Value begets value and emptiness begets emptiness. Networking is not a one-sided activity it is two ways, if you’re not adding to the next person you’re subtracting and over time such a relationship becomes a burden to the other.
Network with the intention of also adding value to the person you’re connecting with in any little way.
Some misconceptions about networking:
- Networking is not limited to just events, one of the valuable friendships I have today we connected at an interview on the island so many years ago and today we have added so much value to each other and shared opportunities with each other.
- Networking isn’t done with cards only, don’t say I don’t have a business card they might not take me seriously, your LinkedIn profile and social media platform also serve as a card and these days it’s easier to also just get their phone numbers where you can reach out to them via WhatsApp or texts.
- Networking can take place anywhere, on the bus, office, street, church etc.
- Don’t look down on anyone when networking, sometimes appearance doesn’t tell you the immediate value someone can offer.
If you’re just growing your personal or corporate brand you need to leverage the right networks for your business success. The right partnership can change your personal/corporate brand for life.
Embrace networking.
Written by:
Eze Chukwudi, MILR, Brand and Communications Manager at Cozym Limited
