Have you ever found yourself thinking, “How is it that professional opportunities seem to fall in everyone else’s lap, but never mine? They’re so lucky… I wish I had that kind of luck.
Friends, let me dispel this myth once and for all. With over a decade of experience in the field of networking, I can attest to the fact that luck has little to do with it. I established my coaching and consulting business, Alyce Blum Coaching, in 2013, focusing on teaching professionals the art of networking to realize a Return On Networking (RON). Today, as a Co-Founder of Articulated Intelligence, (the human centered AI where we help humans communicate effectively with other humans), one thing remains constant.
"Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity." ~ Seneca
People who consistently seem to have opportunities 'fall into their laps' aren't merely sitting at home hoping for connections to magically appear. They're actively engaged in creating, nurturing, and fostering relationships. Simply put, they're putting in the work and reaping the rewards of their networking efforts.
Consider this analogy: Imagine having a goal of getting physically stronger. Instead of hitting the gym, going for regular walks, or adjusting your diet, you stay at home pondering what it would be like to be stronger. Meanwhile, others are sweating it out, making healthier choices, and sticking to a fitness regimen. They see tangible changes in their bodies, and we all acknowledge that these changes are a direct result of their commitment and effort.
Similarly, when it comes to networking, we often fall into the trap of believing that some people are just luckier than others. But that couldn't be further from the truth. Allow me to share a personal experience that illustrates this point.
A few months ago, I received an email from a long time friend, Anne Mounts, whom I hadn't seen in quite some time but stayed connected with through LinkedIn and would always seek out at HR events. In her email, Anne mentioned that a former client of hers was seeking assistance with presentation skills, elevating public speaking confidence, and incorporating stories to better sell their services. Since these types of coaching services were a bit outside her areas of expertise, she asked Reagan Freed, a trusted source in her network who might be a good fit and Reagan suggested me. It might seem like luck at first glance, but the reality is quite different.
You see, Reagan and I have built and maintained a friendship for years. In fact, I highlighted her in my blog in 2018 entitled - Meet My Network. We’ve nurtured our connection over the years through coffee dates, lunches, and mutual support in professional endeavors. And, Anne and I had crossed paths over a decade ago when I was just starting Alyce Blum Coaching. Whenever I come across opportunities in their areas of expertise, I don't hesitate to recommend them.
This reciprocal networking isn't burdensome or daunting; it's effortless because of the strong foundation of mutual trust and respect we've diligently cultivated over time through effective networking, consistent support, and the demonstration of reliability.
Luck may seem like a factor from the outside, but a closer look reveals that successful networking is the result of consistent effort, relationship building, and maintaining professional connections. So, the next time you find yourself envying someone else's 'luck,' remember that you have the power to create your own opportunities through strategic networking.
I'd like to extend a special shout out and heartfelt gratitude to Anne and Reagan for their unwavering support, professional collaboration, and role in demonstrating the true essence of effective networking. Thank you, Anne and Reagan, for being shining examples of the power of genuine connections in the professional world.
To learn more about their work please visit their websites and check them out on LinkedIn!
Anne Mounts, Managing Partner and Co Founder || Acera Partners || LinkedIn
Reagan Freed, Owner || Solvere HR || LinkedIn
If you’d like to learn more about how to build and nurture a strong network, reach out to us here at Articulated Intelligence, we’ll show you how.
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