Five steps to leverage opportunities and build your network
Networking often gets a bad rap. As a human, a business owner, a changemaker, entrepreneur, a team member or seeking to build your own professional network, leveraging opportunities in an authentic way is vital to connect and build meaningful, trusted relationships. It can truly change lives as you also experience growth and fulfillment.
Your network isn't just about the people you know; it's about the people they know too. You can play a crucial role in helping others in your network or organization by contributing and connecting them with others.
Let me tell you a true story.
One day in April 2023, I was scrolling through Facebook , when a post caught my eye promoting a somewhat unfamiliar event : a game board market hosted by Melbourne Meeples at the Collingwood Town Hall. Intrigued, I decided to pop in on my way to my school reunion and explore what a gameboard market had to offer. For those who do not know, I established an art and craft market back in the 90’s and in more recent times, created two gameboards and cards that prompt conversation and use with my clients and business community to build relationships and drive opportunities.
Arriving at the venue on a quiet Saturday morning, I found myself wandering along an almost empty footpath, unsure of what to expect. Hesitantly, I approached the back entrance of the building and cautiously opened the door. My mind swirling with curiosity and apprehension as to what I was going to find.
To my surprise, the interior was bustling with activity. Tables adorned with various game boards lined the room, while groups of people engaged in lively gameplay. Along the periphery, I noticed various stalls, reminiscent of my Bayside craft market days , and sparking memories of years gone past. I remembered how it felt to be a stallholder and the expectation in engaging with buyers.
My attention was quickly drawn to a research group from Melbourne University who explained they were delving into the psychology behind games and the potential impact on future social interactions with the increased implementation of AI.
The next stall that took my eye, was where a young innovator, Jake Bamford, from Western Australia showcased his board and card games aimed at primary school aged children educating them in the importance of caring for our environment. Jake had used sustainable materials in creating his product and rather than cellophane, used a simply rubber band (which he acknowledged was not recyclable) to present his games. . Inspired by his passion and dedication, we had quite a conversation as I recognized the synergy with my own upcoming sustainability event and eagerly exchanged ideas.
Our conversation flowed seamlessly as we discussed his journey into game board creation, his aspirations, and the challenges he faced in funding his projects. Recognizing the value of his insights, I extended an invitation for him to share his story on my podcast, aligning with my commitment to promoting environmental education.
With somewhere else to be, I had to leave the event, where I could easily have had more conversations and made more connections.
Later, reflecting on my experience, I realized the importance of embracing discomfort in unfamiliar environments and engaging with diverse perspectives. Having developed strategies to move out of my comfort zone and open up conversations with almost anyone, I realised that there is a skill that I can contribute to others in how asking open questions and nurturing connections, is valuable.
That day, that event allowed me to I not only expand my own knowledge but also foster meaningful collaborations to create awareness. What could have been an awkward situation was the start of a whole new opportunity and an awesome experience.
5 steps to transform your approach to building your network
1. Embrace discomfort and expand connections: When you step out, you grow. Actively seek out opportunities to connect with new people. Attend events, engage in conversations, and step outside your usual circle to expand your network. Look for opportunities to expand your connections- that could be volunteering, reaching out on linkedin to people with similar roles, saying yes to workshops and conferences…even if you would rather stay home.
2. Craft engaging conversation starters: Curiosity does spark meaningful dialogue and when you have some open-ended questions up your sleeve, you can demonstrate and , show interest in others' experiences, and willingness to learn from about their perspectives. These conversation openers can pave the way for meaningful interactions and deeper connections that may be totally unexpected and unearth future opportunities.
3. Nurture relationships and provide value: Building a network isn't just about making initial connections; it's about nurturing and maintaining those relationships over time. Follow up with people you meet, stay in touch regularly, and find ways to provide value to your network. Whether it's sharing relevant resources, offering support, or simply checking in, consistent communication is key. So develop a strategy… plan, prepare and follow up…the fortune is in the follow up and you can find mutual benefit overtime.
4. Knowledge can be found in unexpected and overlooked places : Don't overlook the wealth of knowledge and experience within your own organization. As a member of a team, contribute your skills to support your colleagues and collaborate on finding solutions. Foster a culture of sharing and learning within your team, tribe, or community, as collective collaboration can lead to innovative solutions and collective success.
5. Confidence over fear through authentic engagement: Finally, aim to approach networking with less fear and more confidence. Change your mindset to connecting and contributing through conversation, rather than “networking” and remember, everyone has something valuable to offer, and by being authentic and genuine, you can build connections that are meaningful and mutually beneficial. As Susan Jeffers wrote in her book- “Feel the fear and do it anyway”…you are sure to learn something about yourself and others from every encounter.
Networking isn't just about exchanging business cards; it's about building relationships and creating opportunities for growth and collaboration. So, embrace the power of networking, step out of our comfort zones, and leverage every opportunity to increase your organizational value. You can make a difference and drive success for your organizations.
If you're ready to take your networking skills to the next level and unlock new opportunities for yourself and your organization, reach out to us today. Let's work together to achieve your goals and drive success. I can be your guide so you get the most out of networking opportunities, gain confidence, kick off future conversations, and access what you need for both personal and organizational growth.
Hello, I am Kerryn Powell, The Network Catalyst and founder of Your Time Matters and podcast host of Conversations and connections to amplify and inspire. I am a connection strategist, conversation starter who thrives on building communities and educating others on the value of networking by creating the right strategic allies to make a positive impact through connection, contribution and community.
I draw on my diverse career portfolio, experience, skills and knowledge to encourage, support and empower business owners, professionals, teams and individuals to create true connection through authentic conversations that build real relationships, boost confidence and generate business and opportunities.
Since 2013, I have provided opportunity for more than 3000 business owners to engage in real life and online events through her business, Your Time Matters. BOOK a discovery call TODAY, and let’s have a conversation to see how I can help you and I invite you to follow me on my social media channels, too.