As we begin the new year, I am once again reminded of the importance of attending network groups in order to let others know about what we are doing.
If this is you are new to running your own company, it can be hard to have that confidence to tell others about what you’re doing. You may be concerned that you come across as arrogant or sometimes even not “ready” because you haven’t got your website sorted or something like that.
This past week has shown us the importance of just opening up to others in the break out chat rooms to ask for help; everyone I was in a group with got support and offers from others to connect separately to chat further. We’ve all been there as start ups so we know exactly what you’re going through during those initial first stages.
Everyone seems to connect via LinkedIn, however if this is not a platform you engage with, then it’s great to have it as just a calling card and use it to message others. Even if you don’t post yourself, you can easily read what others have written or shared and comment or just repost it yourself. It’s those little things that they will see that, if you ever need something in return, makes them more willing to give back to you.
Get to know people when you’re new to a network group; just be yourself, relax and have a laugh. The majority of you here are ex forces and we all know the banter is key! You will naturally gravitate towards those you get on well with and form relationships that complement each other.
This week, my focus has been on helping people who are looking at getting nominated for the FSB or XForces awards. As a former judge for the FSB regional awards, I hope my suggestions have helped and will enable them to present themselves in the best light possible.
It’s getting pretty close to deadline time, but if anyone needs any help, don’t hesitate to reach out !
