Become a Master Networker in 5 Quick Steps

BY JOHN HALL

 

CEO and Co-founder, Influence & Co.

culled from:inc.com

You're a leader for a reason--you have strong managerial instincts, and you know how to organize people. But sometimes the hustle of day-to-day operations can distract you from working on the business.

I recently attended the CMO Club Summit and Argyle Executive Forum and was impressed by the effort some of the most powerful leaders in the world made to help one another. It was a reminder that leaders need to step away from the business andnetwork with peers to gain external insight and exert their influence on others.

If you haven't found your "watering hole," don't be discouraged. There are many great organizations you can get involved with to connect with other leaders.

Sometimes, however, it's not finding these organizations that's the challenge; it's making the conscious effort to remove yourself from the day-to-day operations, which many leaders fail to do.

As a leader, you understand the value of developing peer relationships, but you might struggle with the idea of relinquishing control and taking the time to cultivate them. But your real job is to drive your company forward, and concerning yourself with minute details won't produce any real change. You have to take the necessary steps to find the right groups and commit.

1. Do your research, and ask around. Find other companies you respect, and reach out to their leaders. Ask them about the organizations they're involved in. Make a list of potential groups, and go from there.

2. Evaluate the opportunity cost. Weigh the time commitment of each potential organization, as well as the opportunity cost of spending that time away from the company. You might choose to join only one organization, but that's OK. You have to start somewhere.

3. Use the advanced search function on LinkedIn to find members. You might have connections who are already involved in an organization and can help you hit the ground running. Reach out to them, and meet up at networking events. They can make the transition into a new group less stressful and more constructive.

4. Join the group, and get involved. Joining a group is only the first step. To extract value from your membership, you have to invest time in the organization. Only checking in periodically can actually hurt your relationships with others. Sign up for some of the events, and clear your schedule so you can be fully present.

5. Communicate what you learn. It's natural for leaders to return from a trip and immediately get sucked into their inbox. Resist the initial urge to tackle your emails, and set time aside to speak to other leaders and team members to discuss what you learned on the trip while the information is still fresh.

At the end of the day, forming relationships with people in similar situations makes leadership more enjoyable. Their experiences and advice can inspire new ideas you can bring back to your business.

Through joining the YEC, a peer-to-peer group for young entrepreneurs, I've met some of my closest friends and advisors, and they've helped me through pivotal moments in my business and career.

You don't have to lead your company alone. Invest in peer-to-peer networking opportunities, and you'll become a better-equipped and more forward-thinking leader.