Is your network important to you? Do you provide regular value to your connections?

Is it proper to even call them connections?

For most the answer is “No!”

The Problem with Networking

The problem is that people, maybe people like you, just sit back and do nothing with their network. Sure, they may add a new name every now and then and some people add names regularly, but, sadly to say, that is the extent of their effort.

A Network Is Not Something We Think of Only in a Time of Need

Here’s what I see as the problem. Most people are not proactive or even active networkers. They are simply name gatherers. They look at the process as a way to keep track of people in the event they, the individual, need something.

Is Your Network Collecting Dust?

Their network is essentially something set aside that is collecting dust. Periodically they will pull it out, blow off some of the dust, add a name or two, and then put it back into the corner.

A Valuable Asset Waiting for You to Take Action

Your network can be one of your most valuable assets; if you would allow it to take that role. Your network can be a treasure trove of opportunities and good fortune and the better that you are at networking and the members of your network are at networking; the more value you both will receive.

Networking Riches

I’ve told this Story before, but I’m going to briefly tell it again. There once was a woman who joined LinkedIn because she wanted to build her business. Not only did she want to build the business; she absolutely wanted it to flourish.

Taking her interest and desire she joined one of the many LinkedIn groups and immediately started to get involved. She participated in discussions, asked and answered questions, and added value to the group in many ways.

In the Spring of 2010; British Petroleum (BP) came knocking. They had a problem and they thought this woman might be able to help. Basically BP knew they had many more problems than the oil spill.

This was an opportunity that came to her because of LinkedIn.

Now for some personal insight into this individual; she isn’t even particularly good with LinkedIn. I watch her profile and she has been stuck around the 360 mark in connections for close to one-year. How many other opportunities may exist that she is missing because she isn’t proactive?

Periodically I view the profile of my connections to see what they are doing and to see if they are providing any value to their network. Most of the time I am disappointed by what I see in recent activity.

Most of the time the activity is either not there or it is simply the adding of new connections. There are few posts or status updates. What does that say… OPPORTUNITY!!! Because there are few that are proactive… Opportunity is there for those that are willing to work at it; try it on for size and see if you can be a better networker.

Conclusion

As I said in my previous post “Your Network – Are You A Collector or a CONNECTOR?” from my observations it appears that over 97% and probably much closer to 99% of the people on LinkedIn do not add value to their network; it is up to you to make the difference!

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Do you approach things with an UPPROACH? With the idea that when you make a change; it shouldn’t just be a change – rather it should be a change for the better. This was the premise that caused UPPROACH to be born. The idea of don’t just do it; do it better!

Tom Staskiewicz speaks, coaches, and consults on Professional and Business Networking and how Social Media is a tool in that process. He helps businesses, organizations, and individuals understand the power of networking and recognize that networking is a tool for giving.

Tom believes that when you give value to your network; your network will give value back to you. Using today’s Social Media tools makes Professional and Business Networking more efficient, improves decisions, and enables you to respond more effectively to your audiences.

Do you want to be more effective with your Professional and Business Networking? Would you like to be making more “warm” contacts instead of “cold” calls? Contact Tom to learn more about how he can help you and/or your organization reach your networking goals.

Networking is more than a collection of names and addresses.

Sadly most people feel that they are networking when they simply add someone to their list of contacts or connections. This is not connecting; this is collecting. If that is your intent then your time would be better spent collecting coins, stamps, sports cards, or some other true collectible. There is much more satisfaction to be gained spending your time in this manner!

Today’s Social Media tools allow you the opportunity to easily go beyond the mere process of collecting. If you are not taking advantage of these tools; the only difference between collecting business cards and shoving them into a drawer, a card file, or a Rolodex is your storage media.

True Networkers Understand that Networking Is More then Collecting

True networkers understand and value relationships. They recognize that there are different levels of relationships and that all relationships start out as a simple connection. They also realize that the depth of a relationship develops over time.

True networkers understand that networking is a give and take process and an exchange of value. Networking is not the act of accumulating names in the event that you may need something in the future. True networking means that you are intent upon offering value to your network hopefully in exchange for value being returned; value that may be received now or sometime in the future. The when is not important!

How to Move from Collector to Connector

If you are involved in any Social Media the process of providing value is simple and does not require large amounts of time. Here are examples of easy ways to provide value:

• Share articles you find interesting;
• Provide relevant comment on posts made by members of your network;
• Like posts made by members of your network;
• Thank people that invite you into their network;
• Thank your new connections when they accept your invitation to network;
• Add new people to your network; which indirectly expands the networks of your connections;
• Share your expertise when members of your network have questions;
• Congratulate members of your network when they receive promotions or accept a new job;
• Comment on the status updates of your connections; or
• Help your connections make new connections.

In my unscientific observations I find that the simple act of being grateful and thanking someone for connecting sets you apart from over 97% and more likely 99% of the networking population!

The truth is that most people feel that simply accepting or making a connection validates their networking but that’s not true. That is just a start to the relationship; if you want to be a successful networker you must be reaching out and adding value to the relationship.

Conclusion

If you want to be an effective networker; don’t get caught up in this idea that by having a large number of connections will somehow make you a great networker. It doesn’t! A great networker is someone that regularly adds value to their network and cares about their connections.

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Do you approach things with an UPPROACH? With the idea that when you make a change; it shouldn’t just be a change – rather it should be a change for the better. This was the premise that caused UPPROACH to be born. The idea of don’t just do it; do it better!

Tom Staskiewicz speaks, coaches, and consults on Professional and Business Networking and how Social Media is a tool in that process. He helps businesses, organizations, and individuals understand the power of networking and recognize that networking is a tool for giving.

Tom believes that when you give value to your network; your network will give value back to you. Using today’s Social Media tools makes Professional and Business Networking more efficient, improves decisions, and enables you to respond more effectively to your audiences.

Do you want to be more effective with your Professional and Business Networking? Would you like to be making more “warm” contacts instead of “cold” calls? Contact Tom to learn more about how he can help you and/or your organization reach your networking goals.

• I only invite people that I know well;
• I actively invite anyone and I let anyone in; or
• If they have been following a discussion the answer is; “I’m somewhere in the middle.”

My question to you is where are you in your networking strategy? Or… Do you even have a strategy?

Networking is a dilemma for many because they:

• Are not sure who should or should not be in their network;
• Don’t know how many to have in their network;
• Are confused as to how well they should know someone before bringing them into their network;
• Do not know how to manage their network;
• Don’t know how or how frequently to communicate with their network; or
• Have not learned how to actively network.

Answering any or all of these questions can be a challenge.

You can make it easier on yourself when the first question you ask is: “What is the purpose of my network?” or “Why am I networking?” When you know your purpose the answers to the above questions become much easier.

Developing Your Networking Purpose

Develop your networking purpose first! Making this step your priority will help you decide who you want to invite or allow into your network.

If your purpose is to share personal information; then your network would consist of close friends and family. On the other hand if your purpose is to share information that showcases your talents, expertise, and knowledge; then your network will consist of anyone that finds you and/or your information interesting.

In the remainder of this post I discuss other reasons for networking and other types of networks. I look forward to your comments.

Note: Even though you may have a well defined plan and purpose for your networking you must remember that networking is a two-way street. You must give to receive and you should be giving first. Your network will not produce for you if you do not have a give first attitude!

So what is your purpose? What are you hoping to accomplish through your network? Here are five of the most common reasons for networking…

1. Sharing information with close friends and family;
2. Looking for career and business opportunities;
3. Developing a resource for answering questions pertaining to day-to-day tasks or issues;
4. Creating a team that can give strategic career, business, industry, economic, or other perspectives; or
5. Building your personal or product brand.

Some of these reasons are odds with one another and mean that either you need a way to segment your network or you need to have more than one network. Don’t let the confusion bog you down; keep moving!

Social Network

The Social Network is the one where you share personal information with close friends and family. On the Social Network you may discuss movies you see, vacations you take, the food you eat, the things your children do, etc.

Even though the intent may be to keep this among friends and family there is always the risk it may get released; so it is definitely in your best interest to only post things that, if they do get out, they will not come back to haunt you.

Career/Business Opportunity Network

If your purpose for networking is to create career or business opportunities then the people you invite or accept into your network will be those that have opportunities, can create opportunities, or can connect you to opportunities. Your goal is to bring in hiring managers, decision makers, recruiters, business development professionals, people that can connect you to other people or opportunities, and other similar types of individuals.

Resource or Operational Network

If your networking purpose is a resource or operational network then you will fill your network with people that can assist you and your team in completing your day-to-day challenges and tasks. You want people that you can call on for answers and to help with solutions. This is a very task oriented network. Read my previous post Operational Networks Enable You to Make Better Decisions for more on Operational Networks.

Strategic or Perspective Network

If your networking purpose is to gain perspective on the direction of your chosen job, your career progression, your business or organization, your industry, business in general, legislative directions, etc.; then you want to fill your network with experts in the particular area of your interest.

Input from your strategic network will help you answer questions looking forward on the choice you should be making for yourself and/or your business. Your strategic network is like a personal board of directors and consulting team.

Personal Brand Building Network

To build your personal or business brand takes a different approach to networking. With this strategy you want to increase your sphere of influence and you want a network that will help in the process. You want people that have lots of connections, have a reasonable understanding of who you are and what you have to offer, and are willing to recommend, endorse, and promote you. A good perspective on this is Malcolm Gladwell’s “The Tipping Point.”

Having a large network is fundamental to this UP^PROACH. A large network increases the chances that your message will be relayed and that it will be relayed to a large audience. All you need is a couple of individuals with 30,000+ connections to say a thing or two and you have the opportunity to go viral. If you keep your network small; your will have small opportunities. Read my post on Small Networks Equal Small Opportunities.

Networking with Today’s Tools Makes the Networking Easier and at the Same Time More Complex

In the past networking was much more simple; you never had to worry about separating your messages by audience because the ability to share a message with all of your audiences was unfeasible, if not, impossible. That is no longer the case with the vast array of Social Networking tools that exist.

Today the challenges have reversed and sharing is easy while segmenting and controlling the readers or receivers of your message is difficult. In fact, if you are not careful thousands, if not, millions of people can see your message; whether you want them to or not!

A Note to Even the Most Careful Networker

Even though the intent may be to manage your message and keep it to a certain group; the reality is that your message always has the possibility of being spread far and wide. With this in mind it is critical that the messages you post or send; you are willing to share with the world. If that is not the case; you must be extremely careful.

The Internet has a tendency to spread things to a great many people very quickly. The rule is don’t post something you wouldn’t want your mother to know; because she just might see it regardless of your efforts to hide the information. That means that potential employers, business partners, or investors have a chance of seeing the message as well.

Conclusion

To be an effective networker you must have a networking purpose. You must know why you are networking, who you want in your network, and how you will communicate with your network. Without these fundamentals your network will never be able to produce to its full potential for you or your for your connections.
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Do you approach things with an UP^PROACH? With the idea that when you make a change; it shouldn’t just be a change – rather it should be a change for the better. This was the premise that caused UP^PROACH to be born. The idea of don’t just do it; do it better!

Tom Staskiewicz speaks, coaches, and consults on Professional and Business Networking and how Social Media is a tool in that process. He helps businesses, organizations, and individuals understand the power of networking and recognize that networking is a tool for giving.

Tom believes that when you give value to your network; your network will give value back to you. Using today’s Social Media tools makes Professional and Business Networking more efficient, improves decisions, and enables you to respond more effectively to your audiences.

Do you want to be more effective with your Professional and Business Networking? Would you like to be making more “warm” contacts instead of “cold” calls? Contact Tom to learn more about how he can help you and/or your organization reach your networking goals.

• Expectations from their supervisors, managers, or executives;
• There are now expectations from the new subordinates;
• There are new expectations from peers, both inside and outside of the organization; along with
• Learning the new job.

These are fairly obvious changes, but there is one that is not so obvious.

Don’t Forget About Your Network

Another change that must happen and most people overlook is the need to change operational and strategic networks! No longer do they depend upon Sally or Joe, who worked next to them, or Mary, their previous boss, for advice and counsel on how to do their job. No longer do they have the same supervisors, managers, or peer groups to help them out.

They must take the UP^PROACH and upgrade their network.

New Positions Require New Connections

When a person receives a promotion they need to be looking at the changes that must happen to their network. They need to make contacts at the next level with the people that can help them and their team get their new job done.

Their operational network, those that help with day-to-day issues, and their strategic network, those that provide perspective on the position, the business, the industry, the economy, etc. will require some updating as a result of the promotion.

Don’t Abandon the Past Network; but Build for the New Challenge

The new manager doesn’t abandon those they networked with in the past, but they must recognize that their network must change because the support required will come from new sources.

Many of the failures that occur following a promotion can be directly tied to the failure of the newly promoted individual to make the connections required to succeed at the new level.

The new person needs the connections not only to succeed, but also to endear themselves to those they will at one time or another rely upon or will rely upon them. Bringing these connections into the network can help ensure that no one feels alienated or ignored by the new person.

Ideal Opportunity to Network

Some may be saying that they were never good at networking and they don’t have much of a network. If that’s the case then this is an ideal time to become a networker!

Now that they are into a new position, learning new things; this is an opportunity that they should embrace enthusiastically.

This is also an opportunity for the new person to show their managers that they are serious about the new position and that they are going to make the necessary relationship changes to ensure their success.

So where to start…

Their Operational Network Must Change

The operational network, you know the people that help with the day-to-day tasks, will be different. The new supervisor, manager, or executive must add people from their company to their network that are at the same organizational level and some that are one or two steps up.

The new manager must be bringing the resources into the sphere of influence that can help the manager and team make those day-to-day decisions. This could be members of the accounting, human resources, sales, marketing, engineer, administration, or other groups. Those that can provide valuable input into their day-to-day challenges.

The operational network may include vendors, customers, consultants, industry experts, subject matter experts (SMEs), industry peers, and peers in other industries that can share knowledge and provide additional perspective on the situation.

Operational networks can be a tremendous asset when adapting and building that network in the first 30 – 60 days. The recently promoted will also find people to be very receptive to the request to network.

Your Strategic Network Must Change

Their strategic network – the one that gives them perspective on their position – now and in the future, the company, and the industry – must change. The new manager must identify the people – both inside and outside the organization – that can provide the short and long-term perspective.

These people will be industry and career experts, consultants, company executives – inside and outside the organization, it could include board members, vendors, customers, and others that can provide perspective on where they see the position, the company, the industry, the community, the nation, and other factors that could influence the short and long-term future.

Where the Manager of the New Manager Fits the Picture

The manager of the new manager has a role to play in helping with the networking process. Obviously the new manager will not know everyone that could potentially have an operational or strategic network impact and the manager of the new person must assist in identifying these connections and introducing where necessary.

If the new manager’s manager is not doing this; then the question must be raised as to this manager’s commitment to the new manager’s success.

Conclusion

When careers take a turn by promotion it is incumbent upon the promoted individual to assess and make the necessary additions to their network to ensure their success. Failure to bring in the necessary resources is a formula for disaster.
________________

Do you approach things with an UP^PROACH? With the idea that when you make a change; it shouldn’t just be a change – rather it should be a change for the better. This was the premise that caused UP^PROACH to be born. The idea of don’t just do it; do it better!

Tom Staskiewicz speaks, coaches, and consults on Professional and Business Networking and how Social Media is a tool in that process. He helps businesses, organizations, and individuals understand the power of networking and recognize that networking is a tool for giving.

Tom believes that when you give value to your network; your network will give value back to you. Using today’s Social Media tools makes Professional and Business Networking more efficient, improves decisions, and enables you to respond more effectively to your audiences.

Do you want to be more effective with your Professional and Business Networking? Would you like to be making more “warm” contacts instead of “cold” calls? Contact Tom to learn more about how he can help you and/or your organization reach your networking goals.

Wanted Persons of Interest

I have looked at the content of the television show; but aside from that the title definitely got me thinking.

In today’s world being a person of interest – for the right reasons of course – is a good thing! Whether we are in business, searching for career opportunities or even just a job, trying to be an influencer, or whatever; being a person of interest is desirable.

A Person of Interest Can Attract Opportunities

I know some of you are saying here it comes again someone talking about The Law of Attraction; but is that really all that bad. My experience is that most of the nay-sayers are people that have not tried to use the law or have only done it haphazardly.

The truth is that a person of interest has a far better chance of attracting opportunities than someone that is uninteresting. If you are uninteresting people cannot wait to get away from you. They definitely are not looking for greater exposure to you.

How to Become a Person of Interest

You may be reading and thinking that you do not fit this category, because you are uninteresting. That isn’t true! Everyone has an interesting story, but to truly be interesting; it starts with being interested in others.

Most people like some level of attention and when you take the time to ask them about themselves you are starting to become interesting yourself. The reason is that you are displaying an interest in them and not just in yourself.

When you are genuine in this interest it is easily recognized and your value immediately increases. Being genuine means that you actively listen by responding, asking questions, and restating some of the information to ensure you understand.

This is actually fairly simple process because most people do not do it!

When someone finds you sincere and genuine in your efforts a bond can rapidly form and a friendship develop.

Another way to become a person of interest is to share information with a perceived value with your network. Your network likes to receive valuable information and they will appreciate you more.

If you are sharing an article written by someone else; add your perspective on what it means to you and others. Don’t just send out the link; give a little of yourself and a reason for others to read the information. If you are really good people will start reading simply because it comes from you and you are a person they trust and respect.

When trust and respect are earned people that read your postings will forward them to their friends and contacts. Initially the information you create will stay among your distribution list. Obviously your goal is for the information to be repeated to others. This can happen and should be the objective for the person of interest.

It Is Who Knows You That Matters

If you are a person of interest that means that those looking for you already know something about you. This is key! When people know something about you it piques their interest in you and can make them want to know more.

When the bond or friendship forms you will both start looking for opportunities to help each other. You will each want to see the other succeed and will work to that end.

When people know you, know about you, and there is a bond or friendship; they have the information necessary to connect the dots and connecting the dots is what it is all about. When this person hears of an opportunity that might fit your skill set, your interests, or your product offering; they will be able to connect the dots to bring you and the opportunity together.

Do You Make Opportunities for People to Know You

Unfortunately most people do not take the opportunity to allow others to get to know them. They are reluctant to talk about themselves or crawl out of their shell to create opportunities to talk.

There is nothing you can do that is more counter productive to your goals! You need to reach out, you need to connect, and you need to give people the opportunity to learn about you.

To Be Successful; You Must Reciprocate

You need to remember that it is not all about you; you need to be ready and willing to reciprocate. If you are a person that just talks and talks and does not give the other person a chance; you will not be successful. You must learn about the other person so that you can add value to them as well. This is a trade-off process where you give value to get value.

Conclusion

Look for opportunities to get to know people and for them to get to know you. These are not just surface experiences; this is the real deal. Learn about people, find out what they are looking for and how you might help and of course give them the opportunity to learn about and help you as well.

Realize that you will not click on the same level with everyone, but your chances for developing mutually beneficial relationships will increase significantly and opportunities and benefits will flow both ways.
_____________________________

Tom Staskiewicz speaks and coaches on Professional and Business Networking and how Social Media is a tool in that process. He helps businesses, organizations, and individuals understand the power of networking and recognize that networking is a tool for giving.

Tom believes that when you give value to your network; your network will give value back to you. Using today’s Social Media tools makes Professional and Business Networking more efficient, improves decisions, and enables you to respond more effectively to your audiences.

Do you want to be more effective with your Professional and Business Networking? Would you like to be making more “warm” contacts instead of “cold” calls? Contact Tom to learn more about how he can help you and/or your organization reach your networking goals.

Yes, I took a little literary license with the children’s rhyme; but, if you are a networker, the question is relevant. How does your network grow? Is it even growing?

Small Networks Limit Your Opportunities

Many people intentionally keep their networks small for a variety of, what I consider, irrational reasons. What they fail to recognize is small networks limit opportunities.

One frequent reason I hear is they only want “people that they “know well” in their network.

In fact LinkedIn is a culprit in fostering this idea. LinkedIn tells you that you should only invite people that you know well. While at the same time LinkedIn encourages you to subscribe to a premium service that allows you to easily connect with those you do not know. To me this is a contradictory and a disservice to their users!

The idea of only connecting with those that you know well is a self-limiting mentality.

When your network consists primarily of people that you “know well” you are surrounding yourself with people that essentially know all the same things that you know.

Small networks limit the influx of new:

1. Ideas;
2. Thoughts; and most importantly
3. Opportunities.

Small Networks Cause Personal Stagnation

When you have a small network comprised of people that you “know well” you keep new ideas and opportunities out. When you cannot grow with new ideas and opportunities your only option is to stagnate.

Stagnation Makes You Less Desirable

Stagnation makes you unattractive to potential employers, business partners, and even customers. In today’s world connections are critical. Employers and business partners look for connections because they are key to growth. Some businesses are now looking at the number of connections prospective employees will bring and making hiring decisions based upon these numbers.

Is Your Network Growing?

Have you added connections from your current work, your associations, your volunteer activities, and your previous work experiences? Do you look for opportunities to continually grow your network?

Growing your network is a critical activity that requires daily effort; not massive time, just 15 – 30 minutes each day.

Conclusion

If you are not looking for opportunities; if you do not want personal growth; if you are not interested in being a thought influencer; then by all means keep your network small. On the hand if you do want these things and you are not good at networking; it is time for change.
_____________________________

Tom Staskiewicz speaks and coaches on Professional and Business Networking and how Social Media is a tool in that process. He helps businesses, organizations, and individuals understand the power of networking and recognize that networking is a tool for giving.

Tom believes that when you give value to your network; your network will give value back to you. Using today’s Social Media tools makes Professional and Business Networking more efficient, improves decisions, and enables you to respond more effectively to your audiences.

Do you want to be more effective with your Professional and Business Networking? Would you like to be making more “warm” contacts instead of “cold” calls? Contact Tom to learn more about how he can help you and/or your organization reach your networking goals.

YOUR NETWORK EQUALS YOUR NET WORTH!.
… Unknown

We all have goals. We all want to go or get somewhere? A very few can do it on their own; but the majority cannot… help is needed!

That help starts with your professional network. The members of your professional network can open doors for you and, likewise, you can open doors for them. However, this only works if you know something about the members of your network and they know something about you.

Clinging to the Past

People cling to the practices and excuses of the past when it comes to networking. Yesterday’s Rolodex of connections has been replaced by lists of connections in one or more Social Media applications.

When we meet someone new we continue to collect and file business cards, but we may also look to connect using one or more of the following:

• Social Media applications;
• Contact managers;
• or Email address books.

The problem is that using today’s tools in the same manner that we used the tools of the past; we miss out on the functionality and benefits of the new technology. Networks, whether a Rolodex or card file, were typically organized alphabetically. Today’s tools default to an alphabetical organization, but there is much more. You can search by organization, by title, by location, and much more. You simply need to know how the tool works.

99% of Professional Networks Are Bankrupt

These people are bankrupt when it comes to their Professional Network because they have not taken time to understand the power available or taken the time to implement the advanced features.

When they need the help of their Professional Network they are not prepared.

1. They do not have the necessary knowledge of their connections to know who can help.
2. They do not have the organization to find their connections with certain skills or necessary knowledge.
3. They haven’t taken the time to get to know even the most basic of information about their connections; and
4. Have not taken the time to educate their connections on their own skills and abilities.

As a result their Professional Network is bankrupt because it cannot serve the needed purpose.

Know Your Network; Increase the Value

In the past having not only knowledge, but current knowledge, of your network was a difficult process. You had to be in constant contact just to know their current physical location and a method of contact.

Today, with Social Networking, the process has become much easier. In fact, we now have the ability to connect with people from many years ago because of the Social Media search capabilities. We also have our connections maintaining their own information.

With the advent of Social Networks the old excuses of:

1. It’s too time-consuming;
2. It’s too hard;
3. There is no effective way to keep it current;
4. I don’t know where my contacts are anymore;
5. My network is large enough.

are just not valid.

Knowing the people in your network allows you to connect the dots. If you need a contact into an organization; chances are someone in your network will have or will be able to lead you to a connection.

The Importance of Knowing the People in Your Network

For example I recently found someone on LinkedIn that I wanted as a connection on LinkedIn. My goal was a meeting to discuss how I might help the organization. The individual was my second level connection meaning that one or more individuals in my network is directly connected to my target. I contacted Ed, the mutual connection, to learn whether he knew my target. It turns out that Ed knows my target connection well and is happy to help.

As I talked about my interest I also asked Ed about his new business.

Connecting the Dots…

During the conversation I realize that Ed is working with a similar customer set as my friend Jake. As I connected the dots it makes sense for Ed to meet Jake to better understand markets, but also to see what synergy exists.

From Jake’s perspective his company is always looking for acquisitions that compliment and grow their business; maybe there is an opportunity there for the two businesses: maybe it’s a merger or a joint venture. I don’t know, but I am starting the process to see what might be able to develop for their businesses.

Does this introduction add anything to me; not necessarily, but Ed and Jake may look more favorably upon me as a result and in the future that may be of value.

Successful networking and the ability to help each other starts with knowledge of what each person brings to the table. Although this may appear to be a daunting task, especially if you have 1000s of connections, there are ways to make it easier.

Three Tips to Aid in Knowing Your Network

Here are three tips to aid in classifying your network.

1. Be selective in who you INVITE into your network;
2. Use Malcolm Gladwell’s categories from “The Tipping Point”;
1. Connectors;
2. Mavens; and
3. Salesmen
3. Create a short 3 – 5 question survey for those you invite to learn more about them and add it to your notes about the individual.

Conclusion

If you network is simply an accumulation of names; it’s not too late to turn it around. Start a classification system to identify your connections. Look for and then classify based upon similarities of position, industry, business, location, or other common factors that are relevant to you. Spend 15 minutes a day in this process and you WILL be able to increase the value of your network.

When you add new connections classify them immediately or, if necessary, send your list of questions to help with the classification process. The important thing is don’t let your network to continue growing without implementing a structure and some controls.
_____________________________

Tom Staskiewicz speaks and coaches on Professional and Business Networking and how Social Media is a tool in that process. He helps businesses, organizations, and individuals understand the power of networking and recognize that networking is a tool for giving.

Tom believes that when you give value to your network; your network will give value back to you. Using today’s Social Media tools makes Professional and Business Networking more efficient, improves decisions, and enables you to respond more effectively to your audiences.

Do you want to be more effective with your Professional and Business Networking? Would you like to be making more “warm” contacts instead of “cold” calls? Contact Tom to learn more about how he can help you and/or your organization reach your networking goals.

John’s Story

John was very successful in his previous position; everyone in the business could easily recognize the value he added. As would be expected John’s performance caught the eye of his managers and, sooner rather than later, John was promoted.

The Peter Principle at Work

As in so many cases, however, John did not achieve the same level of success in this new position; in fact, many of those that had been around for a long time recalled the book “The Peter Principle” and how businesses and organizations promote people until they reach their level of incompetence and then leave them there. That was how management was beginning to look at John; was the position bigger than his skill set?

Is John Incompetent?

Was this truly incompetence on the part of John? Was John really out of his league in this new position?

Can a Person Go from a Tremendous Success to an Utter Failure?

Can a person go from a tremendous success in one position to an utter failure in the next. The answer is obviously yes; but the problem is usually something other than incompetence.

Quite often the problem is really one of support or better said “lack of support”. No, it’s not that the people around this person want to see failure; it’s that this person was successful because of the Operational Network they had in the old position; but failed to create in the new position.

Marshall Goldsmith wrote a book a few years ago “What Got You Here; Won’t Get You There”. The premise of the book is that the skills that got people’s attention and caused your promotion are not the skills that you need to succeed at the next level.

New Positions Require New Skills

Often times we go from a position requiring hard technical skills to one that now requires the some or several of the soft managerial skills and people are challenged to adapt to the new requirements.

New Positions Require New Members of Your Operational Network

With a slight modification to Goldsmith’s book title I give you “Who Got You Here; Won’t Get You There” or “You Changed So Now Your Operational Network Must Change”.

Here’s the deal in John’s last position he was incredibly successful. He knew what was going on and how to get things done. He knew who to call if he needed something expedited. He knew the resources that would help him answer a question, get product data, or any number of other of tasks that he or his team must complete.

When someone takes a new position, as John did, the Operational Network must change as well. The group of individuals and the required skills to be successful at this level is typically different, even in the same company. When you are promoted you must be ready to change your circle of friends that have the ability and resources necessary to achieve success in this new role.

People Fail for More Reasons than Lack of Competence

Many people fail, not only because they must now use a new skill set (soft versus hard), but also because they need to change the people with whom they associate.

Many organizations are reluctant or even have policies that prevent a person from being promoted to a management position within their current group. The oft quoted reason is that it is difficult to manage those who were previously your peers. Although true, it is also important that the new manager change the members of their support group and that is difficult if they are staying in the same work group.

Using LinkedIn for Your Operational Network

LinkedIn can be an awesome tool for developing and nurturing your Operational Network. Using the tools for categorizing your contacts enables you to “tag” those individuals that can help with the day-to-day tasks makes the communication process easier. You simply go to the “tag” group, select them, and send a message.

You can achieve even greater efficiency through the creation of a LinkedIn group where you and members of the group can post messages for all to see and the collaborative process can blossom.
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Tom Staskiewicz speaks and coaches on Professional and Business Networking and how Social Media is a tool in that process. He helps businesses, organizations, and individuals understand the power of networking and recognize that networking is a tool for giving.

Tom believes that when you give value to your network; your network will give value back to you. Using today’s Social Media tools makes Professional and Business Networking more efficient, improves decisions, and enables you to respond more effectively to your audiences.

Do you want to be more effective with your Professional and Business Networking? Would you like to be making more “warm” contacts instead of “cold” calls? Contact Tom to learn more about how he can help you and/or your organization reach your networking goals.

The Operational Network

In my previous Blog post I talked in general about the three types of networks: operational, strategic, and social. In this post I talk specifically about the Operational Network looking at:

• What is an Operational Network
• Why you need an Operational Network.
• Who should be in your Operational Network.
• How to communicate with your Operational Network.

What is an Operational Network

An Operational also known as a Tactical Network includes the connections required to get the task done. Whether the connections are internal or external is irrelevant. The issue is finding the best solution in the shortest amount of time. It is drawing upon all necessary resources to reach that goal.

This network is not comprised of connections that can predict or hypothesize about the future. The Operational Network is fully involved in task completion with the best solution in the most timely manner.

Why You Need an Operational Network

Working solo has its limitations; Operational Networks can provide the resources that make working solo unnecessary. Whether you acknowledge it or not operational networks are a necessity; not an option.

The primary reason for the operational network is you simply cannot do it on your own. Whether you like to admit it or not you do need help, you need associates you can call upon when you need additional input or even validation of your ideas. You will never be as efficient working on your own as you are when you have people with whom you can collaborate.

Operational Networks Make Decisions More Timely, Efficient, and Complete

Your Operational Network will help you make better and more timely decisions, solve problems more efficiently, and remove issues that stand in the way of your completing a task. Operational networks can bring a skill set that may otherwise be lacking into the solution process. Your Operational Network can also provide that second or even third set of eyes necessary to review a solution and identify possible problems.

Who Should Be in Your Operational Network

Your Operational Network must consist of the internal and external people that are enablers of good decisions made in a timely manner. Your Operational Network may include some or all of the following examples:

• Supervisors;
• Peers;
• Subject Matter Experts (SMEs);
• Important Customers;
• Vendors;
• Tech Support;
• Team members;
• Accounting Department Employees;
• Sales Team Members;
• HR Employees;
• Marketing;
• Egineering;
• and so the list goes.

Everyone’s Operational Network will be different and must be comprised of those individuals that can help YOU answer your questions and the questions of your customers and ultimately help YOU achieve your goals.

How to Communicate with Your Operational Network

When you put together your Operational Network your ability to communicate effectively and timely is critical. Without this key component you do not have an Operational Network; it’s simply another list of connections.

In the past communication was done primarily using email and before that it was memos and telephone calls. We used the technologies available; but they were very Because of the inefficiencies of the available communications; we never included everyone we might like because it was simply too time consuming.

Today we have Social Media tools that enable us to collaborate much more easily. We can create private groups using LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, or other tools; that enable us to reach out to our entire group at one time and enables everyone to respond and each response to be see by every member of the group.

In the past we would rely heavily on the SME because of the challenges of communication; these groups eliminate those constraints and allow rapid and comprehensive communiques. It’s a different world and we need to learn how we can put these tools together to make each of us more effective.

Conclusion

Regardless of the size of your organization your ability to coordinate and collaborate with resources will stand out and demonstrate your team skills. Effectively using these tools within businesses and organizations is slowly happening; you have the chance to be a leader and demonstrate how this technology will only make you and your organization more effective.

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Tom Staskiewicz speaks and coaches on Professional and Business Networking and how Social Media is a tool in that process. He helps businesses, organizations, and individuals understand the power of networking and recognize that networking is a tool for giving.

When you give value to your network; your network will give value back to you. Using today’s Social Media tools makes Professional and Business Networking more efficient, improves decisions, and enables you to respond more effectively to your audiences.

Do you want to be more effective with your Professional and Business Networking? Would you like to be making more “warm” contacts instead of “cold” calls? Contact Tom to learn more about how he can help you and/or your organization reach your networking goals.

A few weeks ago I was with a client at his restaurant doing some LinkedIn training over lunch and in walks this couple. I look up and at first I’m thinking that I recognize the woman so I wave. She stops and says; “Do we know each other?” I take a closer look and embarrassingly say no, I thought you were someone else. My client, however, says you’re Irene. He’s correct; she’s wearing a name tag!

Everyone laughs, somewhere along the line she mentions something about working for Coca Cola and they proceeded to go place their order and my client and I went back to our LinkedIn training. As they are leaving they say goodbye and we jokingly say goodbye Irene.

Is Irene on LinkedIn

At that point I say to my client; “Let’s see if we can find Irene on LinkedIn.” His question is, understandably, how? So we proceed.

I start by doing a people search for Irene, Coca Cola. It’s somewhat of a random process, but what the heck; we want to test the power of LinkedIn.

I start the search and we get a bunch of hits, but nothing that appears even vaguely close. So I start refining the search. First we narrow it to the United States and that reduces the number of results. Next I select working for Coca Cola, then I choose current employees, and all of a sudden up pops one result for an “Account Development Manager” at Coca Cola in Portland Oregon. Because I am searching for Irene; it is safe to say that this “Account Development Manager” with Coca Cola is named Irene or at least Irene is somewhere in the profile.

I Think I Found Her

This person is on LinkedIn, but not in my network. I can see the individual I found has only eight connections, so this is not someone that is active on LinkedIn. With a premium account I could send an In-Mail. If Irene was more active on LinkedIn; I would investigate further.

How Does This Apply to You?

Have you ever wanted to connect with someone and just couldn’t figure out how to make it happen? Have you ever met someone and just felt like you should get to know them? Maybe you have a name but you don’t remember the last name, but you remember the company. This example shows you that all is not lost; there is tremendous power in LinkedIn and as new people join every day; the potential for finding the person you want gets better and better.

Taking the time to understand how LinkedIn works is critical. Yes, it does take time, but like anything else; once you understand the technology it will not only save you time – you will complete tasks that you would have previously deemed impossible! Get my free white paper “5 Tips to Connect on LinkedIn”.

LinkedIn can help you make things happen!

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Tom Staskiewicz speaks and coaches on Professional and Business Networking and how Social Media is a tool in that process. He helps businesses, organizations, and individuals understand the power of networking and recognize that networking is a tool for giving.

When you give value to your network; your network will give value back to you. Using today’s Social Media tools makes Professional and Business Networking more efficient, improves decisions, and enables you to respond more effectively to your audiences.

Do you want to be more effective with your Professional and Business Networking? Would you like to be making more “warm” contacts instead of “cold” calls? Contact Tom to learn more about how he can help you and/or your organization reach your networking goals.