Internal networking is just as important as external networking. Making an impression on a coworker isn’t like networking to find a new job. When you can effectively connect with others, you immediately increase your ability to communicate, foster deeper relationships and build trust. This naturally makes you more persuasive, which will help you rally your team and positively influence your peers. Here are a few tips for networking within your current workplace.
Focus on your awareness
It’s tough to connect if you’re oblivious to those around you. It’s not enough to know how you move through the world; you need to understand how your energy affects others – does the mood improve or dampen when you walk in the room? This perspective allows you to understand that everything is connected – your interactions with other people, how they perceive you, your attitude, and your responses to them in the moment – and all can be enhanced through better awareness.
Have a conversation over lunch
You may be one of those people who never takes a lunch. It’s time to start. You need to unwind and take a break. If you’re going to the break room anyway, try striking up a conversation with someone instead of sitting in the corner by yourself. This is a perfect opportunity to discuss matters not related to work and could even lead to a strong personal and business connection. Most people will welcome a lunchtime conversation, but you should also be respectful and notice certain signs if the other person doesn’t want to talk at the moment.
Welcome newcomers
This might be the easiest networking tip of all. New co-workers are typically excited to meet others and get some guidance. Right off the bat, you have the expertise that can help them simply by being there longer. It may be nothing more than telling them which floor has the best coffee, or what quirks the copy machine has, but it’s expertise, nonetheless. While your new co-worker may be new to your office, remember that they also have valuable experience. That’s why they got hired, right? Be sure to ask them about their background. You may discover common interests, or that your new colleague has expertise in an area you really want to learn more about.
Congratulate colleagues on their successes
Don’t make it all about you. Don’t make it about office politics. Create a supportive and inclusive environment to work in. A great way to do this is to share and highlight other people’s achievements and promote these internally. It not only shows that you have taken an interest, but it also shows that you can be bothered to make an effort. This can also be simple things like wishing someone happy birthday or dropping by (or sending them a quick email) if someone else has brought a success /achievement of another colleague to your attention.
Take advantage of LinkedIn
You’re on LinkedIn, right? Of course, you are. So are most of your colleagues. LinkedIn is a great way to learn more about your co-workers without crossing that line into personal life (i.e., don’t stalk their Facebook page). You’ll get to see where else they’ve worked, projects they’ve accomplished, and skills that they have mastered. There’s a good chance that you’ll learn something interesting about each and every one of your colleagues when you dive into their LinkedIn page. It’s a no-brainer, and yes, connect with them to start building networks.
When thinking about networking, don’t overlook your current workplace. Take the time to meet new people, connect with people on LinkedIn, and make some deeper connections with people you may already know. The people there are natural connections you have that can be great resources now, and in the future.
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