“Your network is your net worth” – Building powerful relationships in a digital age
Even before COVID-19, the way in which we networked and built contacts was changing. Globalisation, advances in digital technology and a rise in remote work, has seen a move to digital with fewer face-to-face interactions.
Yet, we’d be remiss to believe that relationships are any less important; if anything they are more important than before. But it’s the nature of these relationships that is changing.
As Porter Gale, author of Your Network is Your Net Worth, says “The new form of networking is not about climbing a ladder to success; it’s about collaboration, cocreation, partnerships, and long-term values-based relationships.
“What you do today and the relationships you develop impact events in your future.”
But, as Gale points out, in a technological economy what used to be seen as a transaction between two people – “what can you give me that would motivate me to return a favour?” – is now a transformation of character. Your network is now a lifestyle rather than a process and our success depends on our connections ~ your network really is your net worth in today’s world.
At Kyocera, we’ve always believed that authentic relationships are pivotal to our success – they open doors, business opportunities, and alert us to opportunities as well as red flags.
It’s, therefore, essential that we continue to maintain and build relationships. To do this, Gale advocates connecting based on passion by having three passions you use as talking points every time you meet a new person.
Another way to forge connections is by finding out how you can help someone. Andrew Sobel, author of Power Relationships believes that by uncovering a contact’s desires or concerns, we usually find something worthwhile we can offer them.
The key takeaway is that useful connections are based on how well we treat others.
In summary:
- Find three things you are passionate about
- Use these passions as talking points to build a network
- Find ways you can help others
- Give before you ask
- Continue to foster relationships to create genuine connections, and
- Stay in touch
The reality is that what you do today and the relationships you develop impact events in your future. Purposefully building your network is more important now, and critical to your business and personal growth, than it has ever been before.
Sharon Peché - Marcom Manager - Kyocera Document Solutions South Africa
