Time to Refresh Your Network? Here you go …
Back to it? I sure am. Summer feels so yesterday. (Thank you P’town and Cape Cod – I miss you already.)
We’re heads-down in work and life,– and maybe (dreaded) networking events loom large after a summer off. We’re running from here to there – for what exactly?
Or, we forget to keep our network fresh. Then that moment comes – we want a board seat, or a new job, or figure out our post-career life, and – who and where are my people now? Oops … I’ve lost touch.
Or, we’re tired of the same conversations with the same people. Maybe, we’d like to get some fresh perspectives on our [pick one: work/career/life] as we figure out what’s next for our darn self.
Most networking advice focuses on the How? What I like about a framework I found for my clients is a focus on the Who?! of our network.
As you reflect on the framework, consider these questions –
Where does your current network fit across these four quadrants? How diverse is your network?
What gaps might be filled by future members of your network? How robust is your network?
How might refocusing, re-engaging, and refreshing your network serve you now?!
Important: Your networking goals will be different in each quadrant. And there’s no right answer. It’s about what’s right for you! Note: People do tend to overvalue their Peer Network and undervalue their Social Network.
Bottom line? Our lives are richer when we have a robust community. The size of our network doesn’t matter - diversity and quality win the day. By reframing networking as community-building, we reap the benefits – and unseen rewards are more likely to come our way.
How’s your network shaping up? What’s clicking, and what’s falling flat? If networking feels like a grind or gives you the heebie-jeebies (did I spell that right?!), don’t hesitate to reach out!
Community is central to my coaching frameworks. Want to learn more? Here you go!
Happy Networking!