Looking for ways to build your network? Inforum has answers for that—but it’s important to understand what networking is and what you want to achieve.
The dictionary defines networking as the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups or institutions—specifically the productive relationships for employment or business.
That sounds benign, but we know that the prospect of networking is daunting to many people Even so, it’s arguably the best thing you can do for your career. Experts tell us that you can have great skills, experience, and appraisals, but it’s often your network that connects you to an opportunity.
There are three types of networks to consider:
Operational (Sometimes Called Internal): These are your colleagues, including those you never work directly with or whose paths you rarely cross. A strong internal network can make you more effective and increase your value to the company.
Personal (Sometimes Called Social): This is self-explanatory, but important to your peace of mind and never to be short-changed. Your social network can help you through life’s unplanned events and be a helpful sounding board.
Strategic (Sometimes Called External): These are related to your work, but not immediate colleagues. This includes customers, competitors, and others who interact with you because of your work. A strong external network can enhance your value when it comes to representing your organization with key constituencies.
These all blend together in practice, and connections move in and out of these categories.
Here are just some of the ways you can build career and personal connections as an Inforum member. All of them are beginner-friendly while still offering many opportunities to broaden and deepen existing networks:
INDUSTRY GROUPS
Our industry groups focused on healthcare, manufacturing, and technology can help you make connections inside and outside your field of expertise, and their activities are open to all members. They provide specific networking and knowledge-building opportunities for new and seasoned leaders at every level as well as those interested in learning more about the industries—even if you aren’t part of them. You can learn more about our industry groups here.
AFFINITY GROUPS
Join one of our 12 affinity groups. Each provides an informal way of meeting new people in an informal atmosphere. Our current groups are: Architectural, Engineering, and Construction (A/E/C), Arts & Culture, Coffee Connections, Dinner, Emerging Leaders, Happy Hour, Lakeshore Lunch, Lakeshore Dinner, Lunch, ManufacturingNEXT, We Own Collective, and Words & Wine. Sign up on myinforum.org or our app.
Speaking of which ….
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE INFORUM APP
Our free app is available as an Apple or Google download and enables members to connect, share resources, and engage with other Inforum members. You can use the app to stay in touch with other members, contact a member you’d like to meet, or sign up to be a mentor or a mentee. Anna Grace, director of events and membership ([email protected]) will be happy to help you get started or answer questions.
Want to know more about activities and opportunities in West Michigan? Check out our events calendar here or contact me at [email protected].
Becky Wood is vice president of corporate and membership engagement.
Courtesy of Inforum.
Photos courtesy of Becky Wood.
