Networking is for everyone…not just for extroverts. Everyone knows that, right?
Well, actually no, they don’t. A highly successful manager never misses an opportunity to network even if they don’t consider themselves extroverted.
Whether in the workplace, at a meeting, at a sporting event or any type of social gathering, he’s always on the lookout for great people.
And he is always promoting his organization.
You just n
ever know when you will come across an individual who would be a perfect fit as an employee in your organization. Or a supplier or an advocate…so, you have to be ready.
Effective succession planning depends heavily on networking. You’ve got to be thinking about finding good people all the time.
A successful manager is social and engaging and develops contacts everywhere.
You want to be in the loop…or the network. You want to grow your circle of influence and see it get bigger and bigger all the time.
There are certain industries where networking is a way of life and, in fact, it is the very best way to build business. Real Estate is one of those industries, as is Life Insurance.
The people in those industries must, as they so often put it, “talk to people, talk to people, talk to people”. That is what they do day in and day out.
If they don’t, they can’t make a lot of money or reach the level of success they desire.
In those industries they are networking primarily to obtain new clients, but they’re also looking for people to bring on board in their firms.
If you happen to be shy, networking can be a bit more challenging for you than it might be for others.
However, you need to consider it part of your responsibility as a manager and do it regardless. Whatever it takes, you must do it.
It has to become a habit, or a ‘way’ of being if you are going to be successful.
Finally, if you sincerely appreciate someone for something… send a thank you note.