Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of participating in a panel discussion at a Cleveland SHRM event “Networking Like a Boss”. As a firm believer that actively networking can change both your personal and professional life, I shared how I have experienced this firsthand.
Network Like a Boss Panel at Cleveland SHRM
Back in the early 2000’s, I pushed through fear and discomfort and raised my hand to volunteer with Cleveland SHRM. Who would have thought my days serving on the Membership committee would result in now close to 15 years of volunteer roles with Cleveland SHRM? From Chapter Champion to NOHRC Chair in 2008 to planning 10 DisruptHR Cleveland events, I have met and made lifelong friends.
Earlier in my career, I could not have imagined how networking and making it a priority every week would have such a positive impact in my professional life. Through relentless networking with an Executive Recruiter in 2010, I landed my dream job at UKG. Then, in proactively staying in touch with members of our leadership team, I landed in my current role at Ascend.
The “Networking Like a Boss” event had some lively discussions and even some practice time. Here are some key takeaways from the event:
Michelle Salis & Friends
- Be brave – take that first step and connect with someone that inspires you; people genuinely like to help each other
- Be authentic – authenticity creates stronger connections versus being transactional in your interactions
- Be consistent – keep in touch with people you meet by sending a quick message or sharing information that could be helpful to them
- Be a “Go-Giver” – shift your mindset from “take” or “getting” to one of giving, serving and adding value
(One of my favorite books is “The Go-Giver” by Bob Burg that emphasizes the power of giving and providing value in order to achieve success)
Go ahead and take that first step! Sign up for a local event to meet new people and start building out your network.
