One of the techniques often suggested as a good method to find an employment opportunity is networking. Some job seekers believe that the sole purpose of networking is to ask other people for employment opportunities or job leads. They view the process of meeting with people with a, “What’s in it for me attitude.” The question they are trying to answer is, “What contacts or people do you know that can assist me in my job search?”
However, I have a different view. Networking, at its core is about relationship building. By sharing each person’s unique blend of life experiences, beliefs, passions, and interests, the relationships are nurtured and as a result, grow stronger. By thinking of meeting with a person as an opportunity to learn something about the world, I learn something about myself. People grow through sharing experiences. Finding leads and contacts from people may be beneficial in the short term, but treating the individual as a person and not simply a resource will benefit your life in many more ways in the long run.
By treating each person as a teacher of life, and by sharing life experiences with each other, we change who we are as individuals. Rather than simply viewing people as a source for employment leads and referrals, it is possible to view each encounter with a human being but in the bigger picture, as a chance to change your perspective about who you are and the meaning of life. By taking this approach to networking, several people I have met with have become not only my connections, but also my friends. Life is a journey with many twists and turns, and by looking for something good in others, we find the good in ourselves.
A couple inspirational quotes:
“But giving to other people is what makes me feel alive.” Morrie from Tuesdays with Morrie
“Change the way you look at things and the things you look at will change.” – Dr. Wayne Dyer
Jim Horrell is an inspirational writer who has an active interest in social (LinkedIn, twitter, and blogging), and a background in Information Technology. Jim believes by sharing who we are as people we can make a positive difference in the lives of the people around us and the world. Jim is seeking new opportunities to make a difference in writing, social media, or application programming. If you are interested in sharing ideas, experiences, or thoughts with Jim, please contact him via e-mail at jrhorrell@live.com or blog comment, and he will try to get in touch with you promptly.
Photo Credit Toon Pool.
