Until recently, I would have classified my networking skills as better than average, especially for a guy that works in Corporate Finance.  However, as I was put into my first forced search due to a merger, I soon realized that the network that I had built was not nearly strong enough to carry me through what would be my biggest career challenge to date.  I found that much of the network was tied to my previous position and that the majority of those connections were transaction oriented.  While not a bad thing in itself, it can’t be the sole foundation for those you look to for support or look to endorse to your trusted friends.

     At the start of my search I was fortunate enough to have a few folks steer me in the direction of FEI, FENG, and the McDermott & Bull Executive Network.  Although I am very close to making a decision on which company I will be working with, I don’t believe that I can trace it directly to any one of these groups.  However, it’s what I have learned from each one of these groups, along with my efforts, that has helped me secure my new opportunity.  But in hindsight, what is clear, is that my network was not nearly strong enough to look to for support in this endeavor.  I have spent a very hard 6-months building that network and meeting some tremendous people along the way.  Some folks that are very talented at what they do and I feel fortunate to be included as a peer within their network.

     Only now will the hard work begin as I decide which company I will be working for and the effort that it will take to MAINTAIN the network that I have put so much effort into.  On a recent drive to Las Vegas to solidify an offer, I was given a copy of a networking CD by Hank Blank.  Hank Blank is an O.C.-based expert on networking.  His insight can absolutely help someone increase the scope of their network, the productivity of that network, and help develop a network that will extend and last beyond the current position you might have.  While my approach to networking is endorsed by much of what I heard on the CD, it’s the intensity and passion where Hank excels in this area.  For him, as I believe, it’s about helping others and the benefit will come back to you at some point in the future.  It’s not about the hard sell.  To learn more about Hank, check out his site at www.hankblank.com .

 Thanks for reading……