According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, networking is the cultivation of productive
relationships for employment or business. Although primarily used in
business, networking is becoming a critical skill nurses need to master too!
Benefits of networking
·
Get a job – like they say, “it’s not what you know, it’s
who you know.” Sometimes, that’s true.
·
Find opportunities – whether it’s writing an article for
publication, presenting at a conference or even getting involved on a committee
– most nurses find out about these opportunities through networking.
·
Grow – nurses who network with others expand their
knowledge and skills. Networking enhances professional development!
Ultimately, nurses who actively network, succeed.
Networking
tips
1. Be prepared
Try to find out who will be attending a
networking meeting. Identify a few people you really want to meet and spend
time learning about them BEFORE the event. Also, bring your business card
(oops. If you don't have one - get one – even if you’re a student).
2. Be more interested in the other person than
yourself
You may have a goal for
networking; however, you want to focus more on the other person. Why? It’s
because networking is about building relationships with others. It takes more
than one meeting to do that. So, you don't want to come across as being
self-centered.
3. Network with people who are successful doing what you
want to do
If you’re a student and want to work in OB, you must network with
OB nurses. Likewise, if you’re an experienced nurse who wants to be an educator
– you must network with other nurse educators. Ask them for advice; learn from
them; and build a relationship with them.
4. Network with people beyond nursing
It's always good
to make connections with people who work in other industries - law enforcement,
IT folks, teachers, etc. You never know when you might need advice.
5. Gather contact info
Ask for contact information
from everyone you meet. And....follow-up!!! The general rule of thumb is to
follow-up within 1 week.
Now, get out there and network!
I hope these tips help you to succeed. Thanks for choosing to
become a nurse. I’m cheering for your success!
Take care and stay connected
Renee
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Thanks Renee!
ReplyDeleteThought leaders also often have their own blogs or websites. You can also find them on Twitter or Facebook. Interacting with them there helps them generate activity, which they really appreciate (I'm always thrilled when people comment or reach out to me on the internet) It's an easy way to get attention for yourself and make meaningful contacts!
Thanks Kevin! Great advice. It's amazing how easy it is to network with someone just by finding them via the social media superhighway.
ReplyDeleteGrateful for the comments!
Renee