Now that we are finally able to start getting together again for in-person events, we’re all rediscovering the power of connecting in real time with real people. And while professional networking events may not be very high on your list of social engagements that you’ve missed during the last couple of years, they ARE a critical component of your continued growth and success. Watch Bobbie LaPorte’s June 21 “Your Best Next Move” video for a gentle reminder of why it’s so important to get back out there.
“Your Best Next Move” weekly leadership tip: Reestablish Your Social Skills and Professional Networking Activities
Hi everyone, Bobbie LaPorte here again with my weekly leadership tip for Your Best Next Move, where I help you see continuing curveballs as an opportunity. This year, I will help you actively use your personal agency to accelerate what you want to accomplish in 2022.
Over the last few months, it’s been great to see people getting back together for in-person meetings: running sales kick-offs, visiting customers, attending conferences.
I’ve done 3 team offsites in the last few weeks which has been a blast. Nothing like getting together and having the benefit of connecting with people in person and in real time. I will never take that for granted again.
But with that, does it sometimes feel like you need to reestablish your social skills…. to relearn how to relate in someone’s presence?
That’s an observation many have made, and I think this is particularly true when it comes to “networking.” I think it’s fair to say that most of us are not natural networkers; while it may not be something you dread, it might not be something you look forward to.
As we open up activity to family and other social activities, we only have so much energy and cognitive capacity to do more.
And I’m concerned that your more formal, professional networking activities will be a casualty of our return to in-person meetings. And that’s not a good thing.
Your professional network is part of the currency of your success. Think of networking as getting to know people and sharing information: about yourself, your work, your world. You never know when a connection can be helpful.
So, here’s my tip:
Commit to finding a networking opportunity in the next few weeks and GO.
Don’t set your expectations too high. Just make the move to get back out there, connect with peers, learn what they are doing and learning as they, too, get back into the game.
I made this same recommendation to two clients recently, and while they were also hesitant, they reported that it was totally worth the effort. And it created momentum for them to continue.
That’s my tip for this week. I’ll see you next Monday.