Continuing the From Problems to Opportunities series.
Two significant ways we can prepare for opportunities are to make professional and social connections and identify with like-minded individuals. Essentially, you must network. The type of networking a parent does during their child's event is very different from networking that takes place in a business setting. Both are valuable opportunities because they put you in an environment to make desired connections but the preparation and acceptable behavior are completely different.
Connections are essential in every area of life, primarily in the professional arena but networking in multiple areas of your life will create opportunities for you to: grow as a person, advance professionally, share information and gain knowledge. Sometimes we avoid obvious networking environments because we're shy, socially awkward (at least in our minds), unsure how to navigate the crowd and the biggest reason – fear. It can prevent us from thriving in the environment set up for us to succeed. Below is a list of different types of networking and tips as well.
Networking. The exchange of information or services
among individuals, groups, or institutions; specifically the cultivation of
productive relationships for employment or business.
Business networking. A socioeconomic activity by
which groups of like-minded businesspeople recognize, create, or act upon
business opportunities.
Social Networking. The grouping of individuals into
specific groups, like small rural communities or a neighborhood subdivision, if
you will. Although social networking is possible in person, especially in
the workplace, universities, and high schools, it is most popular online.
Non-traditional Networking. Connecting with individuals you share common interests, goals and ideas. Environments include: social gathering (parties, reunions, play dates, etc.), places of worship, local chambers and business networks, places where people of influence are (clubhouses, non-profit events, golf courses, exclusive gyms, etc.).
Tips for networking in any environment. While networking, remember to engage with people at your level and beyond. It's great to have peers for support, and remember to be complimentary, genuine and model the behavior you're expecting from the other person. Identify resources and potential mentors as your network expands and relationships develop. Use your time with these connections wisely: discover new opportunities, again access to events, etc.
Tips on becoming a mentor: Maybe you're at the point where you should be mentoring someone who is early in their profession or mid-level. Think about the ways being a mentor (officially or unofficially) will help you identify your strengths as a resource and determine specific ways you're able to help mentor others in an efficient manner (i.e. group lunches, schedule times to meet in advance and stick to a schedule).
PRAYER: Dear Lord, we thank You for our abilities, gifts and talents. We thank You in advance for opportunities and where there are none, we ask for your favor. Allow our gifts to make room for us and bring us before people of influence. Increase our faith and confidence as we enlarge our territories through networking professionally, socially and even within our places of worship. Connect us with the right people so we can do more than we would alone. We pray Your will be done. We thank You and we bless You in Jesus' name. Amen.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, we thank You for our abilities, gifts and talents. We thank You in advance for opportunities and where there are none, we ask for your favor. Allow our gifts to make room for us and bring us before people of influence. Increase our faith and confidence as we enlarge our territories through networking professionally, socially and even within our places of worship. Connect us with the right people so we can do more than we would alone. We pray Your will be done. We thank You and we bless You in Jesus' name. Amen.
Check out: From Problems to Opportunities, Preparing for Opportunity and Opportunities: Acknowledgement to catch up on this series. Again, I thank you for reading and its my hope that this blog inspire you to be the woman you were born to be.
Sharon has a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. She combines her experience as an art director, understanding of healthy child development and therapeutic interventions to offer interactive art and talk therapy to clients. Sharon is a wife and mother who is passionate about family life and early childhood development and education. Sharon is known for her commitment to God, excellence and family; comedic wit and ability to empathize with others. "Love you to life!"
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