NetWorking: Rich is more than money

…rich is more than money…

Robert Kiyosaki says, “The richest people in the world look for and build networks, everyone else looks for work.”

The reference to rich people is not just because they have a job. Rich also means “having value and meaning.” The best selling job hunting book of all time, What Color is your Parachute? has a single premise— successful job hunters are primarily information seekers.

It’s no coincidence that “working” is the main emphasis in the word networking. It does require significant time, energy and practice to do it well.

It’s important to understand that there are two very different kinds of networking.

1. Networking with someone you know very well and who already believes in you and your work: In these cases, you don’t have to prepare—you can ask them anything, like, “Who do you know who might have an opening or opportunity?”
2. Networking with someone who you don’t know very well or don’t know at all: Conducting deep, detailed research on topics and forming good questions is the foundation for a successful interaction. You need to show them you’re curious and serious about their field.

TODAY…

Reflect on how active your network is whether or not you’re job hunting. Do you regularly pursue new contacts and maintenance old ones? How? Develop a great question about a key issue in your field.Who in your network should you learning from?

Watch this Networking Video from AARP:

Suggested additional resource, AARP, Transition assistance after a job loss. (PDF)