Networking: an Olympic discipline!

Article published on JDN on 23/07/2024 at 14:04

Alain Marty, founder of the Networking Premium Group, Cercle Wine Business and Rugby Business Club, looks at the power of networking, which often requires ‘Olympic’ preparation.

Like the athletes qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, executives looking for new career opportunities need to prepare to run a marathon.

Take rugby sevens, for example, a sport that is being contested at Olympic level for the third time, with the presence of French star Antoine Dupont. In some respects, this sport can be likened to networking. It requires each player to be perfectly prepared to assimilate new strategies and cope with the intensity of a match.

The smaller number of players makes the game more dynamic and tries much more frequent. To win, decisions have to be taken much more quickly than in 15-a-side rugby.

The same applies to networking: you have to choose your line of play and find your place in the team. On a competitive pitch, you need to master the rules and techniques of networking to make the grade!

Before entering the fray, you need to be ready

Training, practice and strategy are the keys to playing an attacking game and creating match opportunities.

Networking can speed up career transitions. In fact, 80% of professionals consider networking to be important to their success, and 70% of those questioned were taken on by a company where they had a contact.

To create or maintain a network, you need to master its codes and tacit rules.

A networking coach is essential if you are to gain ground and make progress, while avoiding an ‘en-avant’ situation.

Although not every match is the same, preparing for the season is essential. The calendar of meetings must be anticipated. These professional gatherings, which are real relationship playgrounds, encourage meetings with decision-makers from the target companies.

Getting out of the ruck through networking

Many players want to win the precious Olympic title. But only a few will be able to claim it.

To do that, we need to stay motivated, keep our spirits up in the face of setbacks, and keep moving forward with the support of our coach.

Just like rugby, networking is a source of exceptional emotions and encounters.

By practising regularly and learning the fundamental codes of networking, you can open up undreamt-of professional opportunities.

Don't forget: networking is a discipline that can be practised all year round!