.Last week I had the privilege of attending the Columbus (OH) Women’s Leadership Symposium. This year’s theme was “Securing Your Place At The Table.” As I shared in my opening remarks, the use of the word “secure” gives that topic a dual meaning. It could mean “to obtain” but it also means “to retain.” If we agree with the adage that “what got you there won’t keep you there,” then we also know that effort is always needed to stay at the [leadership] table.
I took a lot of notes as our panel of speakers shared the wisdom of their experience. Starting this week and for the next few weeks, I’ll provide some of the comments from the symposium. I invite you to reflect and share.
Topic: Stop Networking and Start Making Connections
- Be strategic about which people and which companies you make a connection with. [When attending events] have a plan about who you want to meet and why.
- Ask the hard questions about what they do, what they need for success. It’s easy [for women especially] to talk about family and kids.
- Some people will lift you up, others bring you down. Worthy connections bring you up.
- Connect with people who are at a higher level than you. If all of your connections are at the same level, who is going to lift you up?
- You have to be conversational. Don’t be an expert at everything, but be informed.
- Stay in touch with your connections. For example, once a quarter reach out to LinkedIn connections or invite particularly valuable connections to coffee or drop them a note.
What has your experience been? How do you move beyond just networking to real connection?
Next week: Finding and Owning Your Voice
The Tuesday Tidbit is the emerging leader’s weekly source for team building tips, leadership development content, creative ideas and general workplace inspiration. To discuss individual coaching or a group workshop at your office, contact me here and let’s chat!
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Photo credit: “Handshake man-woman” by Flazingo Photos used with Creative Commons license.
