Networking: It's More Than Having a Facebook

In our last class session we heard from 3 inspiring women about the importance of networking. Originally, I never thought much of this method of communication and opportunity. I didn't even think the concept would apply to me much because I didn't want to go into the big business world. However, the knowledge provided by Mary B., Melanie Martin Jones, and Andrea Namish gave me a much better understanding of what we call networking. Networking is a tool for building connections and learning who you are outside of your business. In some ways it provides a challenge to your career. One thing that was stated many times last Wednesday was the statement, "you are in charge of your own success." By finding common interests, and goals women are able to create relationships which can then lead to opportunities. Mary B. added, "When women bond together, they strive together." Networking isn't just about getting yourself out there, but also finding who else is out there. The women taught us to take more of a shy approach when mingling at a conference for example. Rather than boring the stranger with information about your hometown, high school, and bucket list, listen to what she has to say. From her stories engage in questions that may result in more detail, this will often lead you to finding common interests between the stranger you just met and yourself. Also, networking is about helping others. By listening to their stories maybe you can suggest someone that could be of assistance to their needs or struggles, maybe that person is you. In this process you want to make yourself memorable. This means, the information you share should be genuine. You want these people to remember you and consider your skills valuable to them and their coworkers, making it a necessity to always be yourself. Now, after establishing a relationship with a woman at one conference, she will meet another woman who has common interests to you and another network is created. Networking is more than talking about your career and hoping someone will care, it's about sharing your story and genuinely caring for the person on the other end. Andrea Namish closed her presentation with a thought that I think we all would benefit considering, "We are all on a journey, who do you want to take with you?"