Career change in the Greek Labor Market (episode 05)
Focusing on: Network of potential customers, network of friends and acquaintances.
As indicated in the phrase above, regardless if the career change, that a person is trying to achieve, is happening in the Greek Labor market or in another, Networking and acquaintances in general, remain a crucial aspect.
Indeed, most people see to their network, when the time comes for the career change or when a lay-off comes by. And it is also true, that most professionals in the HR Coaching niche, repeat again and again that “You must be in contact with your network, you must nurture your network all the time. Not only when things go sour !”.
I guess this advice is rarely followed by the majority, because when you serve a company in a specific role, you get “consumed” by that everyday working-life, and you are left with no space for proactive nurturing of your network.
People forget, they become distant, and taking care of your network is the only way to make it work for your benefit and others.
Networking – The way I see it
Obviously, the way I see networking is different from the way each person thinks about the concept.
Mostly, in terms of Networking I act the way I feel and try to be myself, act respectfully, ethically, and honestly.
There are people in a closely related “ring” of mine, and people that belong to a broader zone. Each case needs different attention, and different actions, to approach & nurture the kind of relationship that exists between you and them.
LinkedIn network of contacts, is of different caliber and quality than the network of friends, family, or locally acquainted professionals and friends. Proximity is a huge factor in the whole concept of networking.
Additionally, nurturing your network, needs certain forms of investment, that above all, is an investment in Humans and human interactions.
- Joining social events.
- Joining work events.
- Going for a coffee with a colleague (ex or current).
- Sending a “happy birthday message”, remembering birthdays!
- Sending a thank you whenever a business opportunity comes along, and something is “boiling down”.
- Sending a present or flowers or a small gift.
- Making a noble gesture / or aristocratically kissing a lady’s hand (Wow! I am romantic, old-school guy!)
- Offering a seat in the conference.
- Buying some drinks, or dinner / lunch at a restaurant.
- Talking via LinkedIn about mutually beneficial opportunities.
- Informing via LinkedIn about job opportunities currently active.
- “Sharing is Caring” etc.
Regardless of the Time or Money spent in such cases, I try to follow and use all those methods and tactics, in an honest manner. That is what I consider proper, decent networking actions from my side.
My best wishes. See you on the next one.
IV