Don Straits - Dragon Slayer

If I hear the word networking one more time, I think I am going to be sick. It has really become a buzzword in our culture for indicating how we can get things from others. These "things" may be a job, sales order, contract, a hot date, or any number of other special favors.

It is time we stopped thinking in terms of networking and started thinking in terms of building partnerships and professional relationships. The guiding principal behind these partnerships and relationships is not "what can I get for myself," but rather, "what can I do for others." Unfortunately, our society has become driven by self-gratification. We are truly a "me" generation. It seems that success is being determined by how we can use others to achieve our goals, regardless of the consequences to that relationship.

I know that if we change our focus to serving others in our professional relationships, then we will actually be more likely to achieve our own career goals. There are a number of simple things you can do to build effective, long-lasting relationships and partnerships.

Here are just a few ideas . . .

Join and, most importantly, become an active member in trade and professional associations. Simply joining an association to "network" with members is a major mistake. Join the organization to assist them in achieving their goals. Take on committee assignments. Volunteer for special projects like fund raising or member development. As you become active and demonstrate your sincere involvement, then seek elective (or appointed) office in the association. Once your "partnership" in the association has been established and you have demonstrated your organizational and professional skills, you will be amazed at how career opportunities will start to come your way.

Become actively involved in community and civic organizations in the same way that you are active in professional organizations. Your participation and leadership in these organizations will bring back rewards beyond your imagination. More often than you realize, new job opportunities can be found right in your own neighborhood, church, school or other community or civic activity.

Participate in college or university local alumni activities. There is a special bond between contributing alumni. The other alumni sitting at your luncheon table are a great source for business partnerships and relationships. Plus it is a great way to stay in touch with old friends and make new friends.

Dust off the hiking shoes, restring the tennis racquet and polish up the golf clubs. But don't just play these sports with your regular buddies. Seek out a hiking club, tennis league or pick-up golf games, etc. Sporting activities introduce you to other competitive, motivated people and they are great places to build relationships.

Demonstrate professionalism in your partnerships and relationships. A perfect example of "professionalism" is to always, always promptly return phone calls or email messages. Recent studies have shown that more and more people are simply not showing common courtesy to others who have tried to contact them. The attitude is, "If this call doesn't immediately benefit me in some way, why should I bother to call them back." It is this kind of thinking that is creating extreme tension between people as opposed to building effective partnerships and relationships.

Make extensive use of the words "please," "thank you," and "job well done." Whether you are seeking a new position or conducting daily business, we do not use these phrases often enough. The individuals that conduct themselves as consummate professionals in every way are more likely to build the relationships that lead to new opportunities.

These six simple ideas for building relationships are by no means all inclusive. I have only scratched the surface. But it is a good beginning. If you practice these ideas, you will probably never have to look for a job again. Opportunities will find you.