networking - the main ingredient in success
I believe that networking is the main ingredient in success. I have been building my network since I was still an undergraduate student participating in ERASMUS+, Harvard MUN, ASEAN conferences and while also interning for UNHCR. Despite not continuing my path in government & development career, I still use a similar approach for networking that requires a combination of the right target and the right networking skill.
In respect of the target, there are two types of people that I prioritize to continuously network with. They are those who like me and can help me grow my career, and those who do not like me yet are able to help me grow.
As an example, when I knew I had an interest in business strategy, I spent more time working with my CEO and my colleague from _____. I learned what they do on a day to day basis, what their visions were, and what kind of person they enjoy working with. As a result, I was entrusted to be the representative for ____ in the ___ Country Steering Committee along with a Senior VP from ____ and a Manager from_____. This position allowed me to network with key people in the group company and got introduced to their high profile clients. I also got myself to assist my CEO in his 3-year business strategy planning for _____, which then gave me real experience in business planning.
Aside from the people who are fond of my work, I still maintain the relationship with those who are more critical towards my work. These people could give very insightful input. Hence, before I present to a client or a person of interest, I always ask the opinion of one person that always criticizes my work. I would gain some specific points that others might miss, balance the inputs with my own views and use it as an additional advantage to my work.
These experiences have led me to gain a significant personal and professional network in the workplace, governments, universities, and consulting industry in the world. This is where the right skills turn to be important where I need to continuously maintain the relationships by considering time, genuineness, and substance. I am still in touch with my CEO and colleagues from _____ and seeking their professional advice every now and then. At the same time, I am building relationships at my current workplace, ______Indonesia, to leverage the network they have with the SMEs community and the decision makers. This newly found network will be beneficial for my future business plan.
My current network is well founded yet is not enough to serve my purpose of becoming a sociopreneur. Being a Chevening scholar will be a huge opportunity for me to build & maintain a new network with more professionals and business practitioners to help me grow and contribute to my society in Indonesia as a sociopreneur that empowers my community. I believe I can contribute to the Chevening alumni community with my creativity and current network.