Networking Works

Taryn is one of the fabulous writers on the Write On! Creative Writing Services team. Her article gives practical tips about networking:

Whether you are in the game to further yourself personally or professionally, one key ingredient is essential: Networking!

I remember some years ago, Joan Rivers gave a commencement speech at Harvard, and the professors and parents were absolutely appalled by her message. It was simple, “It’s not WHAT you know, it’s WHO you know…” that will get you that great job, promotion, or perhaps a foot in the door to a new career or circle of friends. I’m sure that bit of advice didn’t help the sting of that very expensive Harvard education that your parents are still paying for, but nonetheless, it’s oh, so very true.

You might be saying to yourself, “…yeah, but I don’t know anyone and I want to start my own business.” First of all, that may not be a true statement. Here are a few suggestions on how to get started on capitalizing on your network savvy.

• What do you want to accomplish? A promotion? A completely different line of work? Starting your own business? Dr. Phil states that if you can verbalize it, you can make it happen. So write detailed notes of what you aspire to do. For example, if you want to start your own business; do you want to be a consultant? Do you want to open a retail shop? What EXACTLY do you want to do? How will you make money? Do you enjoy it?
• Make a List Tally every friend, acquaintance, family member or neighbor you know and detail what type of connections THEY have if any. How could they help you?
• Educate Yourself Surf the net and educate yourself on what tools and knowledge you will need in order to be successful at your new venture. You will be amazed at how much free information is out there.
• Attend Seminars or Meetings Don’t be afraid to talk to people and tell them about yourself and what you are interested in doing. This is precisely why people get together with a common interest. Someone ALWAYS seems to have a friend of a friend they can refer.
• Volunteer Offer your services to businesses or friends to build your reputation. If you are going for a promotion at work, offer to do extra projects and take the extra time to really make a great presentation. Believe me, your boss will sit up and take notice.
Taryn Simpson is a published author and freelance writer with over 15 years of HR experience. Ms. Simpson owns her own writing company, Simpson - E Publishing which offers clients ghostwriting of novels/articles, web content, brochures, newsletters, press releases and more. Sign up to recieve her free newsletter for writer's tips and news on her website. To learn more about this writer, feel free to visit her online presskit: www.TarynSimpson.com