Cultivate and Build New Relationships Through Networking
In addition to being considered the month of love, February is International Networking Month.
In today's world, developing new relationships with people is truly important. Our social and
professional interactions contribute to our overall health and mental well-being. Many people
work remotely or live far away from their friends and family and often engage with others online
rather than in person. This can make it hard to make new friends or find colleagues with
common interests. We need to make the time and put in some effort, and that is where
networking comes in.
What Is Networking?
Networking involves attending in-person and online events to find people who can offer insights,
opportunities, guidance, and support for business or personal endeavors. Whether you want to
find people who share your hobbies, a lunch date, a travel companion, or a professional who
understands your specific challenges at work, your networking community can add value to your
life.
Networking can be a strategic business activity or a social gathering. You can plan your own
event or attend someone else's based on a personal or professional goal. Who do you want to
meet and why? From LinkedIn business communities to Meetup.com, networking sites have
many ways to help you find "your people" and offer opportunities to meet virtually or face-toface.
When Do You Network?
Networking helps you expand your circle of friends or peers. You might feel lonely, want to learn
something new, need a break from your routine, or simply want to be in a room with like-minded
people. Search for specific events and activities that speak to you and meet your criteria for
locations and times. Check the profiles of online participants and comments about the group to
determine if it interests you. If you cannot find exactly what you are looking for, create a group
describing the types of people you want to meet and the activities or interests you want to
explore. Then set up a time and place to see if other people in your area are willing to meet.
Online networking sites introduce you to many communities and individuals you can build
relationships with over time. You can control the level of interaction you are looking for, whether
it is to attend a casual cocktail hour with 50 people or schedule a meeting with one individual for
coffee.
What qualities are you looking for in the people you will meet? How far do you want to travel to
meet them? What interests do you want to share? Get started and work to establish
connections that enhance your quality of life. You may find that you develop many lasting
friendships or relationships with referral sources.
Networking Is a Worthwhile Endeavor
It takes time to find people who have the qualities you enjoy, whether in personal or business
relationships. Get comfortable with introducing yourself to others. If you are a bit introverted,
start with smaller networking groups, bring a friend, and spend more time listening before
jumping in. Seasoned group members are often happy to introduce themselves and help new
people feel comfortable.
You may have to try multiple networking events before finding the right fit. Once you do, commit
to this social exercise. Building valuable relationships requires gravitating to people you can
appreciate for their personality, skills, or knowledge.
In a world where family members live in different states and most interactions are virtual or
remote, we need to discover new ways to meet people and connect on a deeper level. A sense
of community brings people together. Networking offers an opportunity to give and receive love
and support in a variety of ways. Give networking a try!
MEREDITH | PC
4325 Windsor Centre Trail
Suite 400
Flower Mound Texas 75028
214-513-1013
This newsletter is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as written advice about a Federal tax matter. Readers should consult with their own professional Counselors to evaluate or pursue tax, accounting, financial, or legal planning strategies.
You have received this newsletter because I believe you will find its content valuable. Please feel free to Contact Me if you have any questions about this or any matters relating to estate planning.
