Networks

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.

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Sourav