Which networking strategy would work for you: goal-oriented or time-oriented? The path you choose determines your success and you can achieve success in networking by either being goal-oriented or time-oriented. Being time-oriented would be to live by the clock and aim for expeditious results, whereas being goal-oriented would be to focus on the result and be persistent without the influence of time. Choosing the right strategy is similar to the age-old debate of effectiveness vs. efficiency. While both these methods have their own merits, goal-oriented strategy may be helpful to begin with.
Networking is a process of building and maintaining relationships and connections. Gone are the days where professionals used to think about machines, money, material, and market. Those can be borrowed, bought or leased, but creating and maintaining a good network may not be achievable instantly. If you have heard of the theory of 6 Degrees of Separation, which suggests every person can be linked to every other person on the planet by six or fewer steps of connection, you know how important it is to maintain the connections.
Goal-oriented networking may help you to start with because, initially you are gaining the knowledge to identify and build the network of those who can help in your growth journey. Goal-oriented networkers take time to understand their contacts' backgrounds, interests, and aspirations. They engage in substantive conversations, actively listen, and seek ways to provide value to their new connections. This method may not yield spontaneous results, but it lays the foundation for long-lasting professional relationships which can open doors to incredible & great opportunities in the future (Rome wasn’t built in a day). This learning takes time, but once you are good at goal-oriented networking, you should focus on the time-oriented strategy.
Time-oriented networking is like an elevator pitch, you are looking to maximise impact in a short period of time. Being time-oriented, you engage in short, well planned conversations as you know what you are looking to achieve; and that’s the reason why goal-oriented networking helps you to build a base for time-oriented networking. While being efficient and a multi-achiever, time-oriented networkers may fall into the trap of quantity over quality. This approach is ideal for those who work well under pressure and have quick decision making abilities. It cannot be negated that this approach can lead to a broader network in a short period if done effectively.
Setting the Objectives in Networking
We take our own time to know a person before developing a higher level of relationship with them. This is how professional relations are also built, being genuine and having shared experiences or interests; and this is where the British Alumni Network plays the role by bringing together those who share a common experience of having studied in the UK. This approach not only leads to meaningful connections but also helps you build a personal brand that resonates with others.
Through our networking events we want you to make new connections, but also develop a whole lot of networking skills to expand your reach. By adopting a goal-oriented, time-oriented or a mix of both approaches to networking, you can create the framework for long-term success, make meaningful connections and efficiently race against the clock. By the end of it, you should be able to navigate through both when and wherever the most appropriate strategy is needed.
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