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The Achiever NewsletterBuilding Better Bridges: Networking for Personal ProductivityThe historic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island was home for the OrgPro 2002 Conference for members of the Michigan Society of Association Executives, Michigan Chapter of Meeting Professionals International, and Michigan Chamber of Commerce Executives. Amidst the clip-clop sound of horse-drawn carriages, the picturesque view, and the sweet smell of freshly made fudge, conference participants came together to learn and network with each other.  The
breakout session, “Building Better Bridges: Networking for Personal Productivity,”
presented by AchieveMax® speakers Harry
K. Jones and Kathleen J. Wheelihan, provided an opportunity for attendees
to explore what networking is, what it is not, why it’s important, and some
tools and ideas to start on or renew their skills.
Mistakenly, networking is sometimes viewed or approached as selling, aggressive, simply passing out business cards, or used solely for personal gain. However, the true spirit of networking involves getting to know people and developing relationships, giving without obligation, and exchanging business cards when there is a reason to stay in touch, such as a mutual interest or information or resources to be shared. Why the emphasis on networking? In case you aren’t already convinced through your own experiences or that of other people you know, the following statistics underscore the importance of effective networking:
One of the best ways to get started is to consider what you have to offer to the people in your network, such as special skills, information, experience, or knowledge, followed by asking yourself what you might need help with. Networking begins with listening and sharing—people helping each other to achieve their respective goals. Little things as simple as clipping an interesting article, sharing a useful website link, or answering a question in your area of expertise are all ways to add value to the people in your network. These things show people you care, help build relationships, and establish rapport and trust so that when you need help it will be there for you. Remember, networking can be very rewarding, not only in terms of business outcomes, saved time, and valuable information, but also in personal satisfaction because it involves helping others reach their goals. And that’s a great feeling!Publication Date: Summer 2002
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