In organizations, networks are important!
But are they really important? What kind of different
networks you might have? How do networks get built and expanded?
I have been doing a bit of work on networks over last few
months and have been surprised at some of learnings:
1)
Be intentional about your network. Who do you
need to reach out to and why? Do you
need information, a stretch opportunity, mentoring/guidance, advice, a career
change, etc? Be clear yourself and state
need clearly.
2)
Think beyond your immediate reporting
relationships. Matrix organizations provide you opportunity to leverage
networks which are not necessarily hierarchy driven.
3)
Getting introductions/references are good
launchpads for initial connects.
4)
Networks need acknowledgement. Someone will have
spent his/her discretionary time on you. You must acknowledge and thank person
for that!
5)
Keep your network active. Once you have established
connect – even if there’s no immediate need – periodically touch-base with
network and keep connections alive.
6)
Credibility is built over a period of time. But
it is an important ingredient for ensuring your network works for you. Without
credibility, an expanded network might provide you wrong visibility and might
backfire.
7)
Networks can help you gain a different
perspective on your stated objective – in ways that can be eye opening. It can
be a good idea to dip into your network for gaining this alternative
perspective on things.
I am slowly becoming more convinced of need to and benefits
of intentionally growing and maintaining your network.
-
Sourav
