In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Lori Highby about how to be a networking superhero. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!
Watch the episode here:
Quick Recap
Jonathan and Lori discussed the importance of networking for professional and personal growth, and shared strategies for effective networking. They emphasized the value of building meaningful and high-value relationships, having a clear purpose in mind, and being authentic in their interactions. Lori introduced her 'hub and spoke' approach to networking and both agreed that fostering high-quality connections and following through on commitments leads to stronger opportunities.
Networking Superhero Discussion
Jonathan and Lori kicked off their discussion on how to be a networking superhero. Jonathan, who is based in Utah, introduced the topic and asked Lori to share more about herself. Lori, who is based in Wisconsin, was excited to participate. The plan for the session was to have an organic conversation, with Jonathan asking questions and Lori sharing her insights. The session was set to last around 20 minutes, after which Lori would have the chance to share how the audience could connect with her and learn more about her work.
Networking for Professional and Personal Growth
Jonathan and Lori discussed the importance of networking for professional and personal growth. Lori, a podcast host, speaker, and founder of a strategic digital marketing agency, emphasized the value of building relationships and being viewed as an asset by others. Jonathan, while acknowledging the importance of networking, shared his discomfort at formal networking events and highlighted the importance of networking in informal settings. They both agreed that networking is a crucial component of career development and creating new opportunities.
Strategies for Effective Networking
Jonathan and Lori discussed strategies for effective networking, emphasizing the importance of having a clear purpose or goal in mind. Lori suggested reframing networking events as opportunities to meet new people and learn, rather than just attending them for the sake of it. She also recommended creating a networking group with shared goals, or finding a networking buddy to make connections with. They both agreed that beginning with the end in mind and having a purpose behind their networking efforts would increase productivity and lead to better experiences.
Developing Meaningful Relationships in Professional Networks
Jonathan and Lori discussed the importance of developing meaningful and high-value relationships in their professional networks. Lori introduced her strategy of using a 'hub and spoke' approach, where she nurtures a small group of intimate contacts with deeper networks, rather than maintaining a large number of connections. She also shared her tactic of offering help to the hub person at networking events to make an impression. Jonathan emphasized that fostering high-quality connections, rather than a large number of connections, is more beneficial in the long run. They both agreed that meaningful relationships provide more value and stronger opportunities.
Authenticity, Networking, and Consistency
Lori and Jonathan discussed the importance of authenticity, giving first, and following through in networking relationships. Lori shared her insights from her podcast "Social Capital" where she interviewed over 400 professionals. Jonathan emphasized the value of meaningful connections over superficial ones and the importance of being transparent about promises made. They agreed on the need to provide value consistently and to follow through on commitments.
Listen to the webinar here:
