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Networking with Purpose : Become An Expert Networker
Networking with Purpose
Become An Expert Networker
February 2,2023 at 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Hilton Hotel
800 ETB (For Non-Members)
Networking with Purpose : Become An Expert Networker
What comes to mind when you hear the word networking?
Connection, communication, advancing your career, building wealth, and helping others connect to people, ideas, and opportunities. All that and more…
They say your network is your net worth. But as is true with all worthwhile causes, it takes effort, discipline, ambition, and generosity to be an expert in networking. If you want to reap the benefits of networking, it’s important to know what networking is and what it isn’t. But first, let’s differentiate professional networking from computer networking. There’s no relationship between the two. What AWiB focuses in the February program will not just be discussing about meeting new people. What sets networking apart from casually meeting a new person on any occasion is your intention. Networking with purpose has intention, and we move with specific objectives in mind. This idea may sound restrictive, but definitely not selfish. Because in networking, there is always the element of reciprocity.
Why is networking important?
Using your network is one of the best ways to find a new job or even a new role at your current company or a new business partner. Why is networking so important? It often comes down to one keyword: referrals. According to statistics, thirty-one percent of job seekers find listings through professional connections, especially referrals. Networking can open doors to new opportunities that might be out of reach otherwise.
Networking is such a powerful tool because it:
Stuck on a project? A brainstorming session with someone in your network can help get the gears turning. For instance, if you’re a small business owner, sharing your challenges with fellow business owners can help you problem-solve faster. This exchange of information is at the heart of networking. These connections present new opportunities for mentorship and career development. This is why networking is so important.
The purpose of networking is to make new friends, industry acquaintances, and even business partners. Through these new relationships, you can make progress on your career path quickly. Therefore, it is simple to understand that networking is a powerful tool!
If networking is such an important and powerful tool, why don’t we do enough of it? When people are asked that question, the usual response is:
Talking points:
1. The value and importance of networking
2. Why does networking feel awkward?
3. How do I know if my network effort pays off?
4. What are some of the icebreakers I can use to make me comfortable?
5. What is an elevator pitch, and how do I prepare for it?
6. If networking is so important, why don’t we do more of it?
7. Guiding conversation, so we don’t lose track
Networking Games
2. Speed Networking
3. Sector-specific networking
a. HR
b. Event Organizers
c. Finance
d. Manufacturing
e. Retailing
f. Marketing & Advertising
g. Health & Wellbeing
h. Arts
i. Programs & Projects
j. Construction
Hanna Atnafu has a degree in Organizational Management (BA) and two Master’s Degrees in Transformational Leadership and Change (MA) and Project Planning & Management (MSc).
She is a highly motivated senior advisor, consultant, and trainer with an impeccable track record as an expert in the digital world and flawless communication and interpersonal skills. Hanna has 23 years of exceptional leadership and well-developed industry knowledge in Africa’s Aviation industry, Ethiopian Airlines, Ethiopian Diaspora Trust Fund, and the Ministry of Peace. Hanna has achieved outstanding results, substantiated by receiving the awards for the African Travel 100 Women Award. She also implemented the “all women functioned flight” from its inception to its execution and successfully led the operation and the inaugural flight to Bangkok.
Mekdela Mekuria is a passionate Marketing & Entrepreneurship lecturer at St. Mary’s University, trying to make a difference through creative teaching, inspiration & story-telling. He is also a Business and Finance Coach at E4Impact, an MBA program that is jointly run by St. Mary’s University and Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore of Milan, Italy.
Mekedela considers himself a full-time student of life, considering each moment and encounter as an opportunity to learn. He is part of Toastmasters and is dedicated to improving his leadership and public speaking skills. He is also a marketing professional running a Consultancy firm, Edelweiss Marketing Consultancy, offering trainings on various personal and business development areas as a freelancer. He carries out the tasks he takes part in with a great sense of responsibility and always strives to make a positive contribution.
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