Start networking right away (even if you hate it)

Byham, W. C. (2009, January). Start networking right away (even if you hate it). Harvard Business Review, 22.

Summary

This article gives a brief overview of the reasons to network. It acknowledges that this is not an easy thing to do for most people although it is one of the best ways to acquire crucial information. Practically, it provide3s several key questions one should ask to figure out who should be in your network. Simply introducing yourself is a key tactic to use to get started with networking. What is also key is to go into any new networking opportunity with the knowledge that the relationship needs to be a two-way street.

Experience

My experience with networking is that it sometimes feels 'icky'. I have in the past thoughts about it from the standpoint of only trying to get to know someone to get something for them. In that sense, I have hesitated. This article started to open my eyes about how I can be more intentional in considering my needs when it comes to networking and to simply go into the process of establishing a new relationship based on a desire to learn, not to procure.

KEYWORDS: networking, two-way street, reciprocation, learning, introductions