Thoughts – 2008

21st Century Skill - Highlight 4

Networking Skills - Listen to the Thought Pod

“Compassion creates commitment - which keeps you focused on building your knowledge and network.”
   Tim Sanders in Love is the Killer App - How to Win Business and Influence Friends.

You must Network.

My father-in-law retired from International Paper several years ago. He managed at the Vicksburg, Mississippi location where he made many friends through his impact. Recently there was an explosion at that location. I heard this from my wife who heard it from her sister in North Carolina. My wife said, "I listen to the news daily and check the news on the internet twice each day and I saw nothing on this." There's nothing like your network.

The act of networking is about making connections with meaning and actively maintaining that meaning.

Your time networking should be intentional activities around career connections and collegial support and should be split 50/50 between the two.

I guarantee that the explosion in Vicksburg has, through engaged compassion, reconnected individuals who share the common network node created by association with the International Paper Company. I know my father-in-law and I'm certain he is actively sharing in that network his care and concern where needed.

Give to your network - meaning to individuals - and your network will give to you. Tim Sanders says that showing compassion is a process - not just a singular action. You need a sustainable plan.

Put networking on your list of priorities for personal/professional growth and development.