They might be aware that I’m a professional networker but surprisingly enough several people approached methis week looking for informed advice about the noble practice. This became an excuse to do some research. Alas, i discovered I’m not alone. There’s a wave of networkers!
Since I’m a networker, i must share my contacts. I love connecting people but the idea of losing my few readers… actually, i don’t care… my few readers don’t leave even a little f…ing comment. so, go on, Abandon me to follow the other networkers!
First of all, i would suggest having a look at Socialedge, the website of the Skoll Foundation. There’s a little community of passionate networkers. Very American peace loving, but… they lead on this. See http://www.socialedge.org/discussions/marketing-communication/pumping-up-your-professional-network
Beth Kanter, the facilitator, provides practical tips and address other networkers. Don’t miss it.
If you are looking for some thoughtful reading material and you really don’t have anything else to do – an SM orgy? Alternatively networking – I’d recommend NET GAINS: A Handbook for Network Builders Seeking Social Change. By Peter Plastrik and Madeleine Taylor published in 2006. it’s not about networking but building networks. It’s the same field but not the same stuff. I can’t tell you anymore for the moment. I need a sabbatical at the Johns Hopkins to clarify the difference.
Even the European Commission has discovered this topic. They call it mobility, but we know the Commission has never been famous for its spin-doctors. Would you call the most important document defining the new rules of the Union with the name of the capital of a member state with the worst performance in every field?
Anyway, networking might be the new trend in Brussels… without mentioning the EU is a gigantic networking exercise which has gone ahead for the last 50 years generating the new frontier of politics of the 21st century.
In this respect i have 2 resolutions:
1) I will open ‘Jesus networking for you’, the consultant who changes your life teaching the refined the art of networking.
2) I will explore the dark side of networking: How many f…ing conferences do you have to attend as ‘not important at all’. Delegate before receiving an invitation as speaker? This might change your life and give you hope!
Wait, don’t leave. this time i want you to give you a tip as well. I know you are so needy. Before bothering someone else at conference, drinks or inviting someone to an event, please clarify your goals. if you don’t have any, just make it clear. please don’t waste the my time and the time of anybody else. For instance, if you are not happy with your gender, just cut it… or add it!
