I recently read a Harvard Business Review article on networking, and a question made me pause and ponder. It essentially asked, “What is the health of your network?” I thought about how I continue to build my network and what it says about me.
Here are 3 things to ask yourself about your network:
How diverse is your network?
We tend to grow our network with people like us; however, have you branched out to different professions, cultural backgrounds, and industries?
Diversifying your network is beneficial to developing creative problem-solving skills and learning other careers and cultures.
Do you make connections within your network?
Connecting people within your network helps strengthen their and your network. It is helpful to be clear on the intentions for the connection. This will also help you validate if the network connection is viable. Importantly, can you honestly speak to that person’s ability or reasoning for making the connection? This leads me to the final point…
How do you cultivate your network?
Being intentional with your network is critical. Please ensure regular touchpoints or cadence with the people within your network. This can be virtual through email/text or a physical meeting. You can also set a cadence around significant milestones like birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. We are still in the first few days of 2023, so consider sending an email, message, or text wishing a few people within your network a happy new year, followed up with an update from you and a question for them to respond to.
HBR article source: https://hbr.org/2005/12/how-to-build-your-network