NETWORKING: Playing a Role
Be your true self when networking.
But sometimes that means knowing what role to play.
Those two sentences may seem in conflict with each other, but in truth, they're congruent. While networking, you're likely to meet all kinds of people with all kinds of personalities. Since people tend to like those who mesh with themselves, it's important to know what role to play in order to mesh with them - and why.
Alpha or beta? If you're networking with someone who's used to "holding court," it's a good idea to allow him/her that role. By all means, be your true self, but know the alpha expects to be seen as the alpha - so be your true follower self. Conversely, sometimes you'll be networking with someone who isn't used to leading. Here, it's a good idea to be your true leader self. Played properly, either role may net you help in your work search - or at least some information.
Mind your manners. It's wise to remember that nothing irritates an alpha like someone trying to out-alpha an alpha. They tend to look upon competitors as rude. As well they should. After all, what king would look kindly upon another king trying to sit in his throne?
...Or get out of the way. When networking with a beta, remember that a beta wants to be lead - not necessarily have a co-beta. Since a beta typically has a tough time taking on the alpha role, you shouldn't try to follow one. Lead. If you can't lead the beta and the beta won't lead, the networking relationship will fail. If in this situation, remember the saying, "lead, follow or get out of the way."
IN THE CARAVAN: Know your expected role, play it well, but be your true self.
NEXT TUESDAY: On the Phone Again
Check out last Tuesday's Part II post on targeting the business section - the 5 best ways of making contact.
Want more Networking advice? Check out these posts and The Lion's Pride section of WildJobSafari.com!
But sometimes that means knowing what role to play.
Those two sentences may seem in conflict with each other, but in truth, they're congruent. While networking, you're likely to meet all kinds of people with all kinds of personalities. Since people tend to like those who mesh with themselves, it's important to know what role to play in order to mesh with them - and why.
Alpha or beta? If you're networking with someone who's used to "holding court," it's a good idea to allow him/her that role. By all means, be your true self, but know the alpha expects to be seen as the alpha - so be your true follower self. Conversely, sometimes you'll be networking with someone who isn't used to leading. Here, it's a good idea to be your true leader self. Played properly, either role may net you help in your work search - or at least some information.
Mind your manners. It's wise to remember that nothing irritates an alpha like someone trying to out-alpha an alpha. They tend to look upon competitors as rude. As well they should. After all, what king would look kindly upon another king trying to sit in his throne?
...Or get out of the way. When networking with a beta, remember that a beta wants to be lead - not necessarily have a co-beta. Since a beta typically has a tough time taking on the alpha role, you shouldn't try to follow one. Lead. If you can't lead the beta and the beta won't lead, the networking relationship will fail. If in this situation, remember the saying, "lead, follow or get out of the way."
IN THE CARAVAN: Know your expected role, play it well, but be your true self.
NEXT TUESDAY: On the Phone Again
Check out last Tuesday's Part II post on targeting the business section - the 5 best ways of making contact.
Want more Networking advice? Check out these posts and The Lion's Pride section of WildJobSafari.com!
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