Living Corporate: Media as Mentorship
I often ask my audiences, “What perspectives does your network IGGNORE?” If you’ve read Network Beyond Bias or attended one of my programs, you know that “IGGNORE” is an acronym that represents different aspects of diversity. One great way to learn from different perspectives is to seek out media from non-traditional sources. You can even think […]
When a Recruiter Calls, Answer!
Many people I know tell me they hang up on recruiters. Excuse me?!? Recruiters are fantastic people to have in your CHAMP network! You’re likely to be looking for a job someday, or know someone who will be. You may or may not be looking for a new position. The recruiter won’t know until he […]
Break the Ice: Networking Events 101
The first time you attend a networking event, such as a conference or Meetup, you may be as nervous and uncomfortable as I used to be. Most people’s biggest concern is how to break the ice. Take a deep breath, relax, and know that it does get easier with practice. Pretty soon you’ll find yourself […]
Networking Is a Super Power
The old question for success was “What do you know?” In the information age, though, we all have access to Google. Knowledge has become a commodity and is taken for granted. What you should be asking yourself instead is “What can you do, and who do you know?” (Yes, I know it should be whom, but […]
Making Introductions: Tips for Value-Add Networking
Perhaps you’ve already built a deep CHAMP Network through participation in Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), attending conferences, and building your personal brand on social media. You’ve started to build genuine relationships with a diverse collection of talented people. Now the real fun begins: making introductions. Everyday people make connections, but Superhero Networkers use introductions to create […]
Inclusive Networking: 3 Ways to Say “You’re Welcome”
Identifying missing perspectives in your network is relatively easy. And finding people who can fill those gaps isn’t terribly difficult. But how do you attract people who differ from you? How do you make yourself the light in the room to which they are drawn? In this article, I propose three pillars of inclusive networking […]
Mining for Gold: 4 Ways to Discover Your Personal Brand
Many articles on networking will advise you to start with your “elevator pitch.” Having a quick, canned, fluid introduction is certainly important. It is not, however, the beginning. First, you must understand very clearly who you are, what you want, and what you have to offer. There are a number of assessments you can take to […]
Network Like a CHAMP: Meerkats and Mountain Guides
Author’s note: This article is adapted from my book, Network Beyond Bias. In this series, learn the five critical connections you need to maintain for growing your career, your CHAMP network. CHAMP is an acronym that stands for Customer, Hire, Associate, Mentor, Protege. Part 1 provided an overview and outlined Customer and Hire networks. [Read more…] This article explains the value […]
Network Like a CHAMP: 5 Critical Connections
Professional networking is essential for the longevity of your career and your company. Yet, many people cringe when the subject of networking comes up. If you are new to networking, you may have no idea where to begin. My advice is to start building strong relationships with the people closest to you. In this series, […]
Employee Resource Groups: What You Need to Know
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are typically designed to help employees connect with one another. There are many other benefits for companies and employees.