Professional networks are critical for success. It is how we connect with people and build relationships that shape our career and, more importantly, who we are as people

For most of us, building professional networks began at university and continues throughout our careers. We commonly collect many contacts along the way and follow one another on social media.

But how do you know who to work with within your network to help you reach a desired goal, and how do you do that meaningfully and genuinely? What’s the strategy?

The answer may be in new research and diagnostic tools being developed out of America focusing on helping professionals strategically analyse their networks’ health and plan for improvements.

The research found that professionals with ‘network awareness’ are 35% more likely to receive top performance reviews, 43% more likely to earn promotions, and 42% more likely to stay with an organisation. For more information, visit 

http://cclinnovation.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/leadersnetwork.pdf

The authors of this article have developed an instrument called the Leader Network Diagnostic. The diagnostic can be run at an organisation level or with individuals wanting to further develop their professional networks. It brings a scientific approach to aid you in strategically building relationships with the people you think will count to help you realise your goals. Ground has accredited professionals to administer the instrument, so give us a call if you would like to explore further.

Our upcoming articles will focus on how your professional network can benefit you as a geotechnical engineer or geologist.

We’ll explore how it can aid in optimising utilisation and business development, enhancing your workplace environment, discovering career opportunities, and ensuring you are resilient to redundancy.

Additionally, we will discuss practical strategies to leverage your network for these purposes.

In summary, your professional network is an asset you own, temporarily available to your current employer. High-performing individuals understand this concept well and put time into getting closer to the people who will help them achieve their goals. New tools now make this even easier to do.

Patrick McManus
Director
Ground Recruitment