INTERPERSONAL IMPACT: GROWING MY NETWORK
Networking is essential to success, in business and in life. I can't tell you how many times we as business students have heard the refrain "It's not what you know, but whom you know."
In order to enhance my interpersonal impact, a competency of global social capital, I chose to "grow my network through connections [I] already have". A tip suggested by the global mindset framework was to do this by "being active on professional social networks such as LinkedIn" and by "connecting to my school's alumni network". I did just that through two main tactics: I attended a senior class networking event and I updated my LinkedIn presence.
On October 23, the Smith School hosted a networking event for the senior class. This event would be attended not just by members of the class of 2016, but also by professionals, alumnae and faculty and staff members of the University. I came to the event not to just enjoy the hors d'oeuvres and drinks but truly prepared to network, bringing my business cards with me. Over cocktails and conversation, I met an individual who works in the University's office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. She told me about the process for applying for departmental scholarships, of which I was wholly unfamiliar. Armed with this new knowledge, I planned to apply for departmental scholarships where applicable and to pass this information along through my network.
In the 21st century, in-person networking is not the only way to make connections. LinkedIn is a very valuable social network for professionals. While I have had a profile for quite some time, I took this opportunity to revamp my presence based on some tips from Forbes Magazine. I updated my experience, added a summary, and made new connections with those in my desired industry of management consulting. With these changes, LinkedIn upgraded my profile strength to that of an "expert". You can view the latest version of my profile here.
The Takeaways
Networking is critical. By building my network, I was able to increase my number of personal and professional connections. Often, students see networking as an activity with a singular and immediate endgame- often, finding a job. However, growing a sustainable network is about looking beyond what an individual can do for you now and rather developing a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship. While my networking did lead to some good, one-off advice, my true goal is to build and sustain connections for the future.
In attending the networking event and enhancing my LinkedIn profile, I have better prepared myself to make connections with new people. With time and nurturing, I hope these connections flourish into long lasting, positive, developmental relationships.
