Your Network is Your Net Worth! What a great experience micro-mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Middle Tennessee. And what a treat to spend time with this SUPER impressive group of TSU students.
Takeaways from the evening for the young professionals in our lives (and those of us who need a refresher):
- "Networking" sounds intimidating, but it is really just making new (admittedly, professional) friends. Reach out boldly, express your authentic self, and simply connect with another human being.
- Your version of success is different from that of your neighbor, friend, or colleague. Define success for yourself and keep your eye on the prize. You might be seeking expertise in your field, a particular career path, a financial goal, a season of rest... Avoid becoming distracted by other people's priorities. (Also, my two cents -- remember that an intrinsic motivation (mastery of a topic, helping others) is more strongly correlated with overall well-being than an extrinsic one (e.g., financial reward). Just sayin').
- Your friends in college (or grad school) will one day be a valuable network! I am routinely delighted by what impressive professionals my buddies from the University of Pennsylvania and University of Michigan Law School have become. It feels like yesterday that we were kids together hanging out in the Quad or Rick's American Cafe ;) And now, these individuals make up an invaluable network of professionals I rely upon for expertise and my own personal and career development. Keep in touch.
