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The
Network Within
by: Rita Fisher
When you hear
the word “networking”, what comes to your mind first?
You probably
think about going to a job fair or asking all of your friends, family
members and acquaintances for jobs.
But if you
are currently employed, you might very well have easy access to one of the
best networks you can have.
Let me
introduce you to a different networking concept – that of “inside”
networking, “inside” meaning: within your current company or organization.
68% of large
U.S. companies have some kind of employee networks, according to the
Diversity Best Practices group.
Lots of these
corporate networking groups are divided into functional categories, like
sales, public relations, etc.
You might
ask: “but how will I benefit from joining a networking group within my
company? Why will this help my career?”
Here are 7
reasons why joining one of your company’s networking group, like the
“Advertising Leadership Team” will give a huge boost to your career
1, You will
have access to company leaders you otherwise wouldn’t through interaction
within the group and through delivering presentations, and joining in on
projects.
2, Active
involvement in company decision making process. For example: if you are an
integral part of your company’s “Advertising Leadership Team” you will
have insight into how decisions are made and you will also have
responsibility for the success of projects involving that team.
3, You will
have access to a huge network of like-minded professionals who are also
interested in advancing their career, participating in special projects
and learning new skills.
4, Being part
of the networking group and being involved with special projects also
means that you will also a pulse on the big picture, more specifically:
the corporate-wide happenings.
5, You will
also gain insights into industry happenings through your regular contact
with decision-makers, like-minded peers and training opportunities.
6, Because
these networks are there to support not only their members (you) but
mainly the parent organization (your company), your involvement in a
successful network project will lead to recognition and consequently,
advancement opportunities.
7, Education
and advancement. Company networks regularly offer skill-building
opportunities through seminars, professional training sessions, and mentor
relationships. Take advantage of all of them to advance your career and
expand your knowledge base!
Here are a
couple of tips to make the most of your network participation
How to find
the RIGHT networking group?
Join one that
not only has an active agenda but also boasts the endorsement and personal
involvement of a senior manager you respect and want to learn from.
One more tip
in closing:
Before you
join a networking group, make sure that you create a plan and in it define
what it is that you want out of your network participation and contribute
to your network accordingly.
Good luck
networking WITHIN your company! Because internal company networks work
with basically every level of corporate hierarchy, you will get exposure
to and contact with major decision-makers within the company.
These
networks serve as bridges connecting a variety of professionals from all
levels within an organization. By becoming a member of such networks, you
will gain an incredible career advantage and will develop friendship,
professional contacts, expand your knowledge base and, ultimately, benefit
your career for a long time to come.
Rita
Fisher, a Certified Professional Resume Writer, writes professional
resumes for job seekers. She has received publicity for her work with job
seekers on the Oprah Winfrey Show, in McCall's magazine and in many other
media sources. Her professional resume writing work has been featured in
"Gallery of Best Resumes" a book by Jist Publishing. You can reach her at
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