Why is networking important?
Networking involves the creation of interdependent and often mutually beneficial relationships and can be pivotal in driving leadership, managerial and service development, improving career prospects, enhancing performance and increasing visibility. It is a powerful means of enhancing knowledge of different systems and organisations. The NHS Leadership Framework requires all doctors in the NHS, irrespective of their professional role, function or level to demonstrate effectiveness in developing networks and building and maintaining relationships.
What are networks?
Networks can be formal (e.g. participating in national groups or being an active member of a society) or informal (getting to know, interacting and working with others who share a common purpose or set of interests) and they can occur internally or externally to an organisation (e.g. within a Trust or an external special interest group). Creating networks requires sustained and conscious effort and ideally support from the employing organisation. Virtual networks can incorporate wikis, blogs and discussion boards and are an effective platform for rapidly disseminating ideas and information nationally and internationally.
How can networking help me?
Like-minded individuals within peer networks can provide each other with support, encouragement and developmental opportunities; a synergy of individual expertise and enthusiasm can result in the achievement of goals or projects that would have previously felt unattainable to individual participants. Networking with senior leaders can afford opportunities to experience and witness interactions and events not normally encountered and offer exposure to a range of contacts, deepening and extending networks. It can help expose individuals to a broad range of perspectives, views and information and bring opportunities to contribute to projects and key decision-making processes.
Top tips for effective networking
- Practice, practice, practice! To the uninitiated networking can be daunting however the more you practice, the more effective you will become;
- Always act with integrity and trust;
- Be a positive influence;
- Help others and you will be helped in return;
- Share your passion and enthusiasm;
- Refine your ability to describe your background and interests in a succinct and engaging manner;
- Plan your networking;
- Target groups and contacts according to your aims and capabilities; consider participating in online networks, special interest networks or dedicated networking groups (with a specific remit to foster professional relationships);
- Follow-up meetings and contacts in order to make things happen; send an email, make a phone call, schedule a meeting or forward an article of interest;
- If you lose touch with a contact consider rekindling the relationship.
Where do I start?
Opportunities for casual networking frequently arise at conferences, seminars, training courses, lectures, universities and Royal Colleges. The Faculty of Medical Leadership and Management aims to provide networking with peers in a safe environment; members can attend a free national conference, access member only directories of contacts, local events and professional development opportunities and participate in a confidential online forum for peer-to-peer information sharing (see www.fmlm.ac.uk/membership for further details). Other organisations which facilitate networking include:
What are your tips for effective networking?
