Relationships, relationships, relationships. Every nonprofit organization relies on its external relationships to achieve its mission. Relationships with donors, relationships with clients, relationships with volunteers – they’re all paramount to our success. We are continually asking our board members and staff to network and create new relationships for our organizations. And, yet, even though we recognize that networking is a necessity for our nonprofits, many of us are overwhelmed by where to start or how to do it successfully.
Quick! Fill in the missing letters:
S H _ _ E R
S _ _ P
If you spelled “wish,” “shaker,” or “step,” you are most likely very successful at networking. If you spelled “wash,” “shower,” or “soap,” however, you may have a negative perception of networking and struggle to make connections at social events. In fact, you may find professional networking to be – at best – distasteful and – at worst – “morally dirty.”
- Focus on what you can learn through networking;
- Identify common interests you have with the folks you meet to create truly meaningful relationships;
- Give what you can to those you meet; and
- Network in order to serve others; a higher purpose will make your interactions more authentic and enjoyable.
Find Us On Social Media:
FacebookLinkedIn