I, personally, think there is a key to unlocking the potential of your social network. Hereâs what I mean: For a social network to thrive as a collection of mutually beneficial relationships, you must focus on other people. If you and I are consumed with serving our own needs in peer-relationships, weâve lost the whole âmutually beneficialâ component.
I feel I just wrote a paragraph on âhow to succeed in marriage.â I suppose itâs true for most all adult relationships: If you focus on caring for others (within boundaries and most contexts, of course), the natural byproduct is other well-intentioned individuals wanting to help with your success. For better or worse, thatâs just the way it is.
Letâs brainstorm practical ways to focus on others:
- Ask your boss to relay her work-related goals, and if applicable, focus your attention on working toward achieving them.
- If you are asked for advice, constructive criticism, or suggestions, you can provide honest, helpful information and resources. The alternative is choosing to withhold information in order to stunt the growth of your peer.
- Choose to be encouraging, kind, and helpful to others.
- Practice good listening skills in order to demonstrate respect for others. Read APH CareerConnect’s Communicating on the Job article for the specifics.
- Demonstrate genuine care and concern for others in the midst of difficult times.
- Introduce others who would benefit from connecting, such as a job-seeker you can honestly recommend to a hiring manager.
- Put effort into learn peopleâs names and job titles. Iâm not suggesting recognizing individuals by sight or voice if you are blind or visually impaired, but knowing who works where and that âJimmy stocks materialsâ/ âLaura cleans the office on Fridaysâ helps people know you think they are important.
- Donât monopolize conversations.
- Be aware of what others need from you. If itâs in everyoneâs best interest, meet their expectations. Your office-mate probably needs you to stay relatively quiet so he can work without distractions. The peers in your group project need you to complete your portion well and on time. Your juniors need clear expectations, encouragement, and support in reaching their potential.
In a nutshell, Iâm saying what you learned in first grade: Do unto others what you would have them do unto you. Itâs golden. Take care of others, and others will take care of you.
Now go, a strong social network awaitsâŠ
Learn More About Your Social Network
What Networking Isn’t… for Individuals Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired
Benefits of a Strong Social Network
Principles for Expanding Your Social Network When You Are Blind or Visually Impaired