The Value of a Network (Karin Adelinger-Smith)
Whether we officially recognise it or not, we all belong to some form of a network. Many of us think that in order to network we have to put ourselves out there in a truly uncomfortable way, the way that public speaking makes many of us feel when we are standing in front of a room full of people, our hearts pounding and our palms sweating. This isn’t the case.
It’s important to recognise the value of a network because a network comprises a group of people that provides support, advice, sharing of ideas and expertise which can only enrich our learning. The network I am referring to is a network of people, be it family, friends, a friend of a friend or a business colleague who just happens to be the vet of your great uncle. These connections and relationships will be with people who want to support you throughout each phase of your career.
Whether you are a seasoned campaigner or an athlete new to high performance, acknowledging and growing your network will prepare you for those chance meetings that could happen any time or anywhere. This chance meeting could present an opportunity to find the right person to assist you with a task you are working on.
Here are some tips to value and enhance your network:
- Surround yourself with likeminded people and those different to you to challenge your thinking
- Use the communication tools that fit with your style
- Find out how people like to communicate. Phone, text, email?
- Provide opportunities where your network can connect with each other... You never know what sort of opportunities may arise
- Don’t underestimate how much people can gain from you or how much you have to offer, this may be why they connected with you – perhaps you interest and encourage them.
- Networking is a foundation building block that connects you with people and opportunities.
- Don’t be afraid to tap into your network... someone always knows someone who could help - the old adage ‘two degrees of separation’ really does exist.
Have a go working through the following 4 questions to start increasing both your network and your opportunities…
1. I can challenge my thinking through
a. Like-minded people such as
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b. Those opposite to me that could challenge my way of thinking such as
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2. My communication style includes
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3. Opportunities in my life that might provide networking opportunities include
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4. I could offer others that might want to link with me the following:
Karin Adelinger-Smith is an Athlete Life Advisor with High Performance Sport New Zealand. Karin has worked with elite athletes for over 10 years across a range of sports including Yachting, Paralympics, and Hockey just to name a few. On top of this Karin has vast experience in working with community and corporates in building solid working relationships in sport, business and community projects.
