Volunteering to Connect
Six Quick Practical Business Networking Tips by Dean Lindsay, Author of Cracking The Networking CODE
“It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
A great way to help others while gaining visibility and developing priceless business relationships is through volunteering. All organizations could use a hand. Step out and step up. Look for volunteer jobs that match your passions as well as provide you opportunities to show off your skills and personality, and meet, network and interact with new contacts.
Here are Six Quick Practical Business Networking Tips on Volunteering to Connect:
CODE Quick Practical Business Networking Tip #1
Serve on committees. You can help shape the association’s policy, as well as work closely with and learn from other experts.
CODE Quick Practical Business Networking Tip #2
Chair a committee or run for office. Let people experience your leadership, communication, and organizational skills in action.
CODE Quick Practical Business Networking Tip #3
Work the reception desk. You can network with people as they sign in.
CODE Quick Practical Business Networking Tip #4
Help direct people to the right rooms at a large convention (often called being a people mover).
CODE Quick Practical Business Networking Tip #5
Be a greeter. The greeter spot is ideal for the self-diagnosed shy, because the title alone forces you to connect.
Plus, as a greeter there is an automatic assumption that you are “in the know” and others will naturally come to you for info and help.
CODE Quick Practical Business Networking Tip #6
Join the board. You will connect with key industry leaders and gain a reputation as a leader yourself.
“Volunteering can be an exciting, growing, enjoyable experience. It is truly gratifying to serve a cause, practice one’s ideals, work with people, solve problems, see benefits, and know one had a hand in them.” — Harriet Naylor
Make business networking an exciting, growing, enjoyable experience. Volunteer to Connect. We increase our positive impact as well as increase the potential for new priceless business relationships when we pro-actively participate.