The Value in Networking

At a Women in Trucking reception, two drivers sitting next to each other discovered that they worked for the same carrier. As they left the event that evening, they vowed to stay in touch and maintain their newfound friendship. These two women knew that they could learn from each other and lean on each other; they recognized the value of networking.

For some women in the transportation industry, networking often means looking for another female face in a crowd of trucking company executives. For female drivers spending their day in the cab of a truck, networking is even more difficult. With a ratio of ten to one, whether in the truck or the corporate office, women are almost assured of being in the minority at industry events.

The American Heritage Dictionary defines networking as “an extended group of people with similar interests or concerns who interact and remain in informal contact for mutual assistance or support.” Networking is different from many other relationships as the purpose of the interaction is “mutual assistance or support.” In other words, networking has a purpose.

We can all use a little help these days. Whether we’re looking for advice, a career move or just someone who understands our perspective, it’s nice to have someone who is willing to offer that encouragement or guidance. That’s the value in networking.

So, how can you become more connected?

In his book, “Never Eat Alone,” Keith Ferrazzi offers his tips on how to utilize the power of relationships to further your career. As you can probably guess by the title, it’s not something that you do on only one occasion; it’s a way of life you adopt to make connections for a lifetime. How can you find value in networking?

First, determine what you want from your interactions. What is your mission? Are you thinking about expanding your fleet, or are your sights set on climbing the corporate ladder? Write down your goal and identify who can help you reach that ambition and then start networking. Be aware of industry leaders and others who can help you become more successful in your career aspiration.

Ferrazzi suggests that you expand your networking circle by looking for people he calls ‘connectors’ or those who can help you link to ‘important’ people. Connectors can be anyone but are usually people who meet or have contact with large audiences, such as fundraisers, journalists, and restaurant owners.

Make sure that you provide value to others so that you have something to offer in the networking relationship. Be willing to share your knowledge, time and resources and people will be more than happy to reciprocate. Ferrazzi reminds us to never keep score. However, you will develop relationships much more quickly if you aren’t expecting something each time that you have given your time or resources. This also means that you should reach out to others, even when you are not in need of their advice or assistance. You never know when your turn will come.

Successful networking also means that you pay attention to details. Write down names so that you can remember them and be sure to note something distinctive about that individual. Did they win an award, overcome a challenge or do they have an unusual hobby? Write it down and ask them about this when you meet. You’ll endear yourself and create more trust when you show an interest in your networking partner. Stay in touch and always follow up when you promise to get back to someone.  Ferrazzi calls these follow ups “the key to success.”

Never eat alone, as the opportunity for networking can occur when you least expect it. Learn how to chat with charm, as small talk is the way people create bonds and build trust. Watch the other person’s body language and learn to read non-verbal cues. Be interesting and credible, and let the other person know that you are willing to add value to their career by sharing your time and energy to help them become more successful.

The two drivers who found that they worked for the same carrier learned that one of the benefits of being a member of an association, such as Women In Trucking, is the opportunity to network. Finding value in networking will help you become more successful in your career. Consider Ferrazzi’s advice and look for people and opportunities to network, and remember, never eat alone.

Ellen Voie

President/CEO/Founder of
Women In Trucking, Inc.
ellen@womenintrucking.org
www.womenintrucking.org

Women In Trucking Association, Inc. is a nonprofit association established to encourage the employment of women in the trucking industry, promote their accomplishments and minimize obstacles faced by women working in the trucking industry. Membership is not limited to women, as 17 percent of its members are men who support the mission. Women In Trucking is supported by its members and the generosity of Gold Level Partners: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, Daimler Trucks North America, BMO Transportation Finance, Great Dane, J.B. Hunt Transport, Ryder System, Inc., U.S. Xpress, and Walmart. Follow WIT on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn. For more information, visit http://www.womenintrucking.org