The Network Beyond the Wires
by Mike Mitchell
 
As an extremely focused telecom or IT professional, when you hear the word "network," you probably have visions of wires, routers, and switches.  When you get beyond all of this, you'll find another kind of network, a network that can be a tremendously important asset to you, your department and your career.
 
Of course, the network to which I'm referring is your circle of contacts (and potential contacts) within your organization. They are the key players with whom you can develop a mutually beneficial relationship in order to reach your (and their) goals and objectives. Your business network is your informal team, a group of trusted advisors who will encourage you, offer advice, and pave the way for you.
 
Forming a mutually beneficial business network
 
Develop a mutually beneficial business network. With the right attitude, business networking can help all of those involved. Zig Zigler once said, “You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help other people get what they want.” For instance, when you are given a project to manage, you are definitely going to pull together a team, seek the council of the stakeholders, and assign tasks to team members. You are essentially creating a business network to accomplish your project. Now, wouldn’t it be wonderful if you had already developed trusted relationships, built rapport, and established credibility with the key players on your project team? It’s a lot easier to manage a project if you’ve already laid the foundation, rather than try to manage a project while developing relationships.
Setting up your business network
 
Define your purpose: In general, the purpose of a business network is to develop mutually beneficial relationships to help you achieve the organization’s goals and objectives. Of course, your network can also help you with your specific goals and objectives.
 
Identify your key players: Think about any area in which you could use some assistance. It may be in an area that’s not your strength or one where you have limited access. Network with your accounting staff for help with budgets or vendor invoices. Create a connection with the purchasing manager for more detailed advice on product pricing and availability information. Develop relationships with call center managers, engineering staff, and human resources personnel. Any C-level contacts are always helpful.
 
Develop your business network mentality: If you’re an outgoing person this could be easy for you. If you’re more reserved, you may have to stretch a little. This is an excellent opportunity to develop or polish your communication skills. Characteristics such as likeability, credibility, and dependability will help you quickly establish rapport. Most importantly, these network relationships are “give and take.” Most people are very willing to give to you, and you, in turn, must do the same for them.
 
Make your connection: Take steps to become better known around the organization. Volunteer to help with company wide events or projects, go to lunch with different co-workers and managers, connect with co-workers before and after meetings (always be early to meetings!), or write an article for the company newsletter or blog.
 
You probably already have the beginnings of your business network in place. Start to use that network to help achieve your goals, build consensus for projects, and provide expert advice. You may also be able to benefit from career advancement opportunities earned by well-maintained network connections as they move to other organizations. -Mike