Leadership Networking: Connect, Collaborate, Create. David Baldwin

increase effectiveness by deepening and broadening the communication channels between individuals and groups

      • remove political roadblocks by bridging distances that separate positions, work groups, teams, and business units

      • open up new opportunities and uncover ideas by “cross-pollinating” with other groups and individuals who may connect in ways not readily apparent

      • strengthen their power base by delivering support and resources to groups and individuals in need, by accepting resources as required, and by broadcasting the availability of talent and resources found in their group

      • gain exposure across their organizations by highlighting individual efforts and the work of their groups in achieving organizational goals

      Still, many managers in leadership roles are ambivalent about or even averse to the idea of networking. They have seen colleagues aggressively network for personal gain. They may view networking as an uncomfortable or tedious process. Some managers consider themselves too busy to give attention to networking, and even if they see its value, they think the organization should value their individual contributions even more. But becoming a more effective leader requires not only developing their skills and capabilities as individuals, but also developing relationships with others. If managers who struggle with either the concept or the practice of networking can set aside their preconceived notions, they can develop skills that take networking to a different level.

       Beyond Conventional Wisdom

      Aspects of conventional networking are useful, but for long-term or complex situations a leadership view of networking is essential.

Conventional networking can be seen as …

Leadership networking should be …