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At a recent Women In Trucking reception, two drivers sitting next to each other discovered that they worked for the same carrier. As they left the event that evening, they vowed to stay in touch and maintain their newfound friendship. These two women knew that they could learn from each other and lean on each other; they knew the value of networking.
At a recent Women In Trucking reception, two drivers sitting next to each other discovered that they worked for the same carrier. As they left the event that evening, they vowed to stay in touch and maintain their newfound friendship. These two women knew that they could learn from each other and lean on each other; they knew the value of networking.
The American Heritage Dictionary defines networking as “an extended group of people with similar interests or concerns who interact and remain in informal contact for mutual assistance or support.” Networking is different from many other relationships as the purpose of the interaction is “mutual assistance or support.” In other words, networking has a purpose.
We can all use a little help these days. Whether we’re looking for advice, a career move or just someone who understands our perspective, it’s nice to have someone who is willing to offer that encouragement or guidance.
It’s even more beneficial to be able to connect with someone in your own industry who understands the challenges (and opportunities) you face as you advance your career. Many of your experiences will be similar, and by having another person work through these trials with you, you can both benefit from the learning outcomes.
That’s the value in networking.
So, how can you become more connected?
In his book, “Never Eat Alone,” Keith Ferrazzi offers his tips on how to utilize the power of relationships to further your career. As you can probably guess by the title, it’s not something that you do one occasion; it’s a way of life you adopt to make connections for future interactions.
It often takes courage to find a person who is sitting alone or maybe in a small group and approach them. It’s not middle school, however, so be bold and just join them and start a conversation. This is especially important if you are attending a conference or business event. The odds that they are there for the same reason are pretty high.
Never eat alone, as the opportunity for networking can occur when you least expect it. Learn how to chat with charm, as small talk is the way people create bonds and build trust. Watch the other person’s body language and learn to read non-verbal cues. Be interesting and credible, and let the other person know that you are willing to add value to their career by sharing your time and energy to help them become more successful.
How can you find value in networking?
First, determine what you want from your interactions. What is your mission? Are you thinking about expanding your business, or are your sights set on climbing the corporate ladder? Write down your goal and identify who can help you reach that ambition and then start networking. Be aware of industry leaders and others who have the level of influence to help you become more successful in your career aspiration.
Ferrazzi suggests that you expand your networking circle by looking for people he calls “connectors,” or those who can help you link you to “important” people. Connectors can be almost anyone, but are often people who come in contact with large audiences, such as fundraisers, journalists, politicians, and business owners.
Make sure that you provide value to others so that you have something to offer in the networking relationship. Be willing to share your knowledge, time and resources and people will be more than happy to reciprocate. Ferrazzi reminds us to never keep score, however, as you will develop relationships much more quickly if you aren’t expecting something each time you feel that you’ve given. This also means that you should reach out to others, even when you are not in need of their advice or assistance. You never know when your turn will come.
Successful networking also means that you pay attention to details. Write down names so you can remember them and be sure to note something distinctive about that individual. Did they win an award, overcome a challenge or do they have an unusual hobby? Write it down and ask them when you meet, you’ll endear yourself and create more trust when you show an interest in your networking partner. Stay in touch and always follow up when you promise to get back to someone, which Ferrazzi calls “the key to success.”
Don’t forget to reach out on social networking sites, especially LinkedIn or other professional groups. You’ll find people with similar interests discussing topics that could be relevant to your career growth.
As the two women who attended our conference learned, an event targeting their own vocation is an excellent way to meet like-minded individuals. The Women In Trucking Association holds an annual convention which is attended by hundreds of trucking industry professionals (both women and men) who come together to advance their careers. The number one reason they cited for attending is for the opportunity to network.
The two drivers who found that they worked for the same carrier learned that one of the benefits of being a member of an association, such as Women In Trucking, is the chance to connect. Finding value in networking will help you become more successful in your career. Consider Ferrazzi’s advice look for people and opportunities to network, and remember, never eat alone.
