Networking - the four essential archetypes for the ideal office network.
I loved the article posted last week on Fast Company - The 4 People You Need for an Awesome Network - and I wanted to share it for this week's Professional Tip Tuesday. If you have ever worked in an office setting, you have probably met a few of the characters described in the post. In fact, I'm sure you have found these people within any experience you might have had. That solid network in your organization can prove to be beneficial throughout your career (**hint, hint: keep in touch!).
At this point, we have all heard it.. networking is key for any professional. I am here to tell you, it's true. In the business world today, where so many jobs are people based it is crucial that you rely on your network to accomplish your career goals.
The last two years of college, I actively searched for internships and jobs. I was also an intern in the campus career center. With all of that I met A LOT of business people. I was under the impression it was important to connect to all of them. LinkedIn makes that all to easy. I probably sent out a few too many LinkedIn invitations (but that's for a later PTT post).
But to my surprise, the author of this article wisely points out there are only four essential people for that close network. That's not to say you shouldn't make an effort to get to know your coworkers. It's good to stock your network with the people you frequently interact with on a daily basis at the office.
The key message is - The following four character types are crucial relationships for your network. They will make all the difference in your professional and career development.
1) The Social Butterfly - this person is the ultimate connector!
2) The Mentor - This person is ready to take you under their wing.
3) The Computer Guy - Insider knowledge on the office technology!
4) The Newer-New-Person - This is your chance to be someone's 'person'!
Have you known any of these people in offices or organizations you've been apart of? Any words of wisdom on how to get to know them? Comment below!
The last two years of college, I actively searched for internships and jobs. I was also an intern in the campus career center. With all of that I met A LOT of business people. I was under the impression it was important to connect to all of them. LinkedIn makes that all to easy. I probably sent out a few too many LinkedIn invitations (but that's for a later PTT post).
But to my surprise, the author of this article wisely points out there are only four essential people for that close network. That's not to say you shouldn't make an effort to get to know your coworkers. It's good to stock your network with the people you frequently interact with on a daily basis at the office.
The key message is - The following four character types are crucial relationships for your network. They will make all the difference in your professional and career development.
- If the Social Butterfly learns that you have an interest a new project, they will probably want to introduce you to their friend, the head of that project.
2) The Mentor - This person is ready to take you under their wing.
- This person displays openness and always wants to help. Feel free to ask them questions and definitely go to them for advice.
3) The Computer Guy - Insider knowledge on the office technology!
- In this technology driven business world, being in-the-know on the cool tech stuff in store for the office is a great advantage! Plus it's always good to have a computer savvy friend when something inevitably goes awry.
4) The Newer-New-Person - This is your chance to be someone's 'person'!
- The fourth person for the network is the newest employee. We have all been there! Pay it forward with some nice words and key advice. Maybe even tell them about the 4 essentials for a good office network :)
Have you known any of these people in offices or organizations you've been apart of? Any words of wisdom on how to get to know them? Comment below!
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