Why is networking so important?

Why is networking so important? Today I had a fantastic conversation with a delightful guy who I originally met on a group networking call. We chatted for a couple of hours, and the time just flew by. We spent the time finding out what our plans are for our future lives, and discovered we have a lot in common. Hopefully this will go on to be a relationship where we can help each other out with our respective life journeys.

I have had several of these conversations since finding out I was at risk of redundancy, and I have built up strong connections with all of the people I have spoken to. What I find most useful is the chance to get to know people from different walks of life, which helps to give me a different perspective on things, and enriches my life as well as increasing my network. Hopefully they are gaining just as much as I am from our relationship.

Convoy

I have also joined a wonderful networking group called Convoy. It is one of the most supportive environments I have ever had the pleasure to experience, and I have huge respect for Christopher, who set it up. I love being a part of Convoy, and feel very privileged to be a member.

Networking

I don’t consider myself a natural at networking. I’m actually quite insecure, despite outward appearances, and suffer from low self-esteem. I find the idea of traditional networking quite intimidating, so I had to put my own slant on it to make it more enjoyable. As long as I can visualise it as just getting to know people, to see how we can help each other, I can overcome my nerves. It’s all about changing my perspective and mindset.

Hope

Times are tough for everyone at the moment. We need to take care of ourselves and of each other, which is why these nourishing conversations and safe spaces are so important. We need to give ourselves hope in order to deal with the difficulties we are experiencing. Jobhunting is already a challenge, doing it in the middle of a pandemic just adds another myriad of issues.

Resilience

Having these uplifting experiences during networking sessions gives us a boost of energy, and improves our mental strength, giving us the resilience to carry on. I came off the call today with a really positive mindset. It gave me the feel-good factor I needed to help me deal with some of the challenges I am facing.

Collaboration

By helping each other we all benefit. The collaborative and cooperative approach feels good. We can draw comfort from the idea that we can be strong for others when we are able to, and accept help from others when we need it. It is a proper community, relying on the concept of give and take, where everyone is prepared to participate for the benefit of all involved. I like to think of it as a virtuous circle, where we are all working towards the greater good.

Project 365

I set up this website after deciding that I want to build a more creative life for myself, so I can give up my job and be in control of my own destiny.

I have set myself a goal of publishing an article on my website every day this year, to document my journey from employment to self-employment.

The name I chose was Project 365 because I see this as a year that I have dedicated to learning and self-development, as I countdown to freedom. It started on 1st January 2021, so I have 342 days to go!

Why not check in on a regular basis to see how I am progressing, and what I have discovered?