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Muslim Singlehood
The Power of Networking
By Zarinah El-Amin Naeem
Remember the saying, “It’s not what you know but who you know”? In anticipation of our upcoming networking & game night on April 3rd in Metro-Detroit, we thought we would provide a little Networking 101 this month.
Listen, personal connections can make or break your career and professional advancement. Being familiar with the right people can open doors to opportunities that you would have never imagined. Unfortunately, many lose out because they believe only natural extroverts are good at networking. Great networkers are not born, they are created; networking is a skill that can be learned by anyone.
I’ll share a secret with you; I used to be a very shy person. Well liked but never the center of attention, the thought of “networking” was so foreign to me that I was afraid of it. My fear begin to cripple my development and I quickly realized important opportunities were passing me by because I was too uncomfortable talking to strangers.
Finally, I changed the way I approached the topic. Instead of “selling myself,” I began to see networking as sharing my gifts and talents with those who potentially need them. The conscious shift from “selling” to “sharing” allowed me to move into a more giving state of mind - and for me that made all the difference. When I talk to people now, I realize that I am a child of the universe and I have a special role to play on this earth. Who am I to withhold my talents from the rest of the world!
But no matter how you view networking, here are 5 things to consider when developing your skills.
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1. Respect. Approach everyone with the same respect you would like to be treated. Never assume that someone is not on your level and does not have anything to offer. Each person you meet has the potential to connect you with hundreds of others – don’t miss your opportunities by being snooty. 2. Give rather than take. Surah 2:261 states, “ The parable of those who spend their substance in the way of God is that of a grain of corn: it grows seven ears, and each ear hath a hundred grains. Allah gives manifold increase to whom He pleases: and Allah cares for all and He knows all things.” Networking is a two way relationship. It’s not all about what you can get, but how you can give. Approach it in this way and you will receive much more than you would ever imagine. I promise! 3. Visualize Success. The mind is a powerful tool and when properly tapped, can propel you forward in whatever you attempt to do. Stephen Covey in 7 Habits of Highly Effective People suggests you “Begin with the End in Mind.” When approaching networking, pre-visualize yourself meeting and interacting with people that will contribute to your positive development. See yourself smiling. See yourself learning about a new person and see that person learning about you. This type of visualization allows it to become a reality. 4. Be prepared. What is your product, business or service? What is important about what you offer? Be prepared to articulate your talents in a quick and meaningful way. But don’t stress out. Yes, you may only have one shot with any one individual, but networking opportunities are abundant. If you gaffe, keep practicing and you will soon find yourself making connections in places you never thought were possible. 5. Follow up. The initial meeting is only one step. After meeting someone new, send a short personal thank-you email to let that person know you valued their interaction. This also helps you to remember details about your meeting. It’s nothing more embarrassing than to forget someone you’ve met before! When approached with a prepared and open mind, networking will dramatically increase your influence in the world. And of course, if you are in the Mid-West, don't miss out on LINKS - Niyah's social networking events for Muslim professionals and those interested in doing business with the Muslim community. So What are your networking tips?
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Everyday Reflections
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NIYAH is a publishing and creative-living company that inspires and uplifts the soul. We publish books and goods of purpose that inform, entertain and motivate action. Before embarking on any project, we ask the question, "Why are we doing this and how does it benefit society?" We pray that through this process, our work will always be of value. |
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Comments
bilalyasin, April 2, 2009 - 1:40pm
This is an excellent article. I enjoyed it and have passed it on to about 50 other people. I too have been shy in approaching people. But I am learning to share, or give, in order to receive. I am learning that I have more to offer than the networking opportunity I try so hard to present. Sometimes, just a sincere conversation with another human being, without trying to sell anything, is gratyfing and uplifting to each person involved. So, I have stopped trying to sell... just talk to people, one on one, and respect every individual you meet.
Thank you,
Bilal Yasin El-Amin
Richmond, Virginia
http://www.powur.com/bilalyasin
Niyah, April 18, 2009 - 4:49pm
We took a look at your website and you definately have A LOT to offer! I'm interested in knowing more about alternative energy options for Sierra Leone. We've been thinking about moving to solar energy but not quite sure where to begin. InshaAllah we'll be in touch!
Zarinah
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