Thrive: Networking with a Purpose

I remember in my last month's finishing up my PhD preparing to send out applications for tenure-track jobs to work as a professor. During my career as a student I have always been told how important networking is and various strategies to apply. The moment I started my first day as a tenure-track faculty member my perspective changed toward networking and mentoring. I hope these three points help you in developing a strong network to move you forward in you endeavors.

1. Your network should be diverse.

This first point continues to challenge me. It has also cause significant growth in area concerning purpose. Let me share a story. I attended a program in May 2019 which was geared toward women in engineering and one of the sessions focused on mentoring. If you are like me, you are always open to finding a new mentor to add to your network. The first task was to start writing out who we considered a mentor in different areas of our lives. I noticed that I kept picking the same type of connections. From that point on I put a demand on myself to connect with people similar and different from me. Remember diversity should not be boxed into just race and gender but, thought and discipline as well. I realize when I always choose people that have my same background and views that it limited me in thought and creativity. Maybe that passion or purpose I should fulfill might be stunted because the person or place I am avoiding has my answer. A diverse network provides unlimited resources so choose wisely.

2. Network strategically.

This second point deals with strategy. As I began to develop my personal mission and goals there were many questions or ideas I had in my mind. This helped me to start on a specific trajectory. Since we do not know everything I began to think of who I would need in my network. Your network is not only to assist you in moving forward in your purpose but, to connect you with people to collaborate on new solutions that benefit everyone. Wherever you want to go your network should be able to get you there!

3. Your network can help you thrive in any environment.

Point 3 is so critical. There are many roles we will take on during our journey. Some stops provide more areas of growth then others. Sometimes we need advice or assistance along the way to help us navigate through these stops. Essentially you are building up your team. A team that will challenge, connect, advocate, and speak to your potential. Your team will be invested in your success. So no matter where you are in your journey you will be able to THRIVE because of your support.

As you begin to develop your network......Remember as you continue to evolve you know what you need. Go get it!