What I Learned after Three Months ‘on the Grid’
Posted by [email protected] on Oct. 13, 2016 / Subscribe 0
By Jennifer L. Stutts, CPSM, Director of Marketing, Communications & Strategy at RS&H
As marketers, we all know the value of networking and that we should be making it a priority.
In his book No-Nonsense Networking: The Straightforward Guide to Making Productive, Profitable and Prosperous Contacts and Connections, Timothy M. Houston said, “Networking is not a part-time or occasional exercise. Everywhere we go, we have an opportunity to network with others.”
Well, that’s easy to forget when your life is flooded with proposal deadlines, strategy sessions, meetings after meetings—and let’s not forget, we all do have personal lives (or at least try to). Many of us find ourselves stuck in our offices and glued to our desks.
So when SMPS Tampa Bay started a Networking Grid earlier this year, of course my first reaction was, “Sign me up!” The ‘grid’, basically a month-by-month match-up of members (and sometimes prospective members), brings people together who are interested in forming connections, mentorship opportunities, as well as maintaining and expanding their overall network.
To me, it was an obvious and easy, “don’t-have-to-think-about-it,” way to make sure I put networking back on my priority list.
And now, after three months active ‘on the grid’, I can honestly say it’s working. I’ve also learned a lot in the process:
- Discover shared interests outside of work.
This seems like a no-brainer when networking, but sometimes we can get so wrapped up in talking about this job or that job, we forget we’re actually talking to another person – whose life doesn’t always revolve around work.
In my three networking dates, I learned new things about members whom I’ve known for years –things about their family, their current home buying process, their experience with their child’s first few months at school, something that I’m experiencing now.
The key to building relationships is to be able to connect deeper than a superficial level, and great networking can help you do just that.
- Learn something new about their skills, experience or career.
So far, I’ve learned about diverse backgrounds in website design, realty, and communications. Heck, I even learned one member went to the same university as me, studied similar things, and is now venturing into branding.
Who knows – one day this bit of information may come in handy, not only for you but for them. For instance, you may be aware of a unique job opportunity or are working on a project that requires that particular skillset or experience.
To be able to make those connections and offer valuable information goes a long way in developing long-lasting and productive connections.
- Realize you CANNOT not network.
Nope. You just have to do it. Even if you’re not in business development. Networking is the basis of all business – whether it’s an outside network or an internal network within your firm.
In his book, Houston also said, “When you are networking you are doing more than just marketing your business; you are marketing yourself.”
And he’s right. Networking has the power to catapult your career. If you don’t do it, you run the risk of becoming stagnant, staying comfortable in your little bubble, and missing opportunities to learn and grow.
So as we all look at ways we can develop and become better marketers, one thing’s for sure – make networking a priority. And if you’re having trouble doing so, now may be the time to get back on the grid.
Visit SMPS Mentoring Program if you'd like to join the SMPS Tampa Bay Network Grid or learn more about the program.
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