Networking: Some CFOs love it, others can’t stand doing it.
Whether you love or hate it, networking can create connections that help boost business.
So how can you network without hating it?
Try these three steps:
1. Meet people
You don’t have to go to a stuffy networking event to meet other Finance pros.
Try attending training sessions or seminars on facility-related topics to make connections.
For in-house networking, go to company lunches and talk to other department heads.
Building personal relationships will help get their backing when you need it for a new project or initiative.
2. Think ahead
Interested in a project another facility manager or department is doing?
Think up a few questions about it so you’re ready to talk when you run into each other.
At the end of the conversation, ask if it’s OK to contact them if you have any more questions.
It’s an easy way to make a connection. Most folks are happy to talk about projects they’re working on, and it’s a great way to network.
3. Touch base
The most important part of networking is keeping in touch.
You don’t want your contacts to forget they met you and vice versa.
One easy way to do this: Keep an eye out for information that relates to what you discussed and pass it along.
Forward a few facility articles you found helpful, for example.
And don’t forget to ask for advice.
Getting different perspectives on a problem is one of the biggest payoffs for networking in your field.