NETWORKING. Does it make your palms sweat and your mouth go dry? Does it conjure visions of unwelcomed sales pitches, awkward conversations, and a fistful of business cards of people you can’t remember the first thing about? These are not examples of effective networking.
Effective networking is about developing valuable, authentic relationships over time. It’s about sharing who you are and what you do – and learning from others about what they do, as well. It’s about listening and learning. It’s about the willingness to help others — as well as seeking help yourself. It’s not complicated; it doesn’t have to be hard. It’s about growing your circle of friends. It’s something that you’ve actually known how to do from your first sandbox encounters. A good network is a two-way street for sharing resources, ideas, information, and connections to vendors, potential clients and referrals.
Paula Norbom, President of Talencio notes that as she visits with Life Science executives and technical professionals, she senses real diligence and focus on getting the job done – which is, of course, how businesses move forward (https://talencio.com/think-outside-the-box/). But she also notes that this inward focus can prevent professionals from looking at, and learning from, what is happening in the wider environment and with their peers in the industry. “That’s where industry-oriented educational conferences and meetings can be so helpful,” Paula notes. At these meetings, people with similar job functions have the opportunity to hear from experts in the field about best practices and to interact with each other. “Getting out of our office cubes to meet with others in the industry can expand our thinking – and our network,” she noted.
The 10X Medical Device Conference, sponsored by the LinkedIn Medical Device Group, will be held in Minneapolis May 12-14, 2014. The conference is a once-a-year chance for Medical Devices Group members to meet in person. Medical device and life science professionals will share strategies for innovation and growth in an increasingly difficult economic and regulatory global environment. It will offer ample opportunity to expand your horizon and your network.
You are an important part of Talencio’s network. To thank our friends and to encourage you to attend the 10X Medical Device Conference this May, Talencio has arranged for you to receive a 10% discount from the registration fee. Enter the discount code: “Talencio.” 10x Medical Device Conference We look forward to seeing you there!
Sources:
Nine Reasons Why You Should Network, Melanie Joy Douglas
Why You Need to Network, Dawn Rosenberg McKay
Why You Should Develop Your Business Network, Sonia Thomas
Why Networking Is Essential for Career Success (And Everyone Should Do It Now)
Image courtesy of cuteimage | FreeDigitalPhotos.Net