Accountants have a reputation as introverts. They tend to be more comfortable working behind a desk than working a room. But Kohn puts that kind of shyness in perspective: It's more the rule in the wider population than the exception. It can be overcome by approaching networking with the same systematic approach you use in your work.
This is from an article James Rubin wrote describing a presentation Kohn made at the California CPA Education Foundation's recent conference for young and emerging professionals. It gives me an excuse to get on the soapbox - again - about networking. I won't go on too long, but I'll point out that for a group of people who tend to stay in one place even when they might like to make a change - like, say, accountants - networking can be a good way to hedge your bets.
First off, by getting to know more people you develop relationships that work for any number of reasons - from answering practice-related questions to scoping out potential job opportunities. If you're truly not interested in a new job, networking is good for your existing firm. It raises your visibility among potential clients, associates and folks who just might have some expertise you'll want to tap from time to time. And don't feel like you're being selfish - you'll return the favors.
It's remarkable painless - really. Kohn's points provide a roadmap to taking the first steps.
Networking Doesn't Have to be Hard [JITM]
2 comments:
Mark,
Great points! I also recommend using on-line networking sites such as LinkedIn, Ecademy, Ryze, and MeetUp to add diversity to your networking strategy. One of the great things about on-line networking is that you get to compose your thoughts and review and tweak your message before you hit send. This option works especially well for new networkers or people who consider themselves to be introverts.
Another article on introverts and networking can be found at www.hardingco.com/blog/
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