Worth Repeating: Are You a "G" or a "T"?

Resurrecting another oldie but goodie networking truth this week - guidance "worth repeating" - especially as the new networking year lays in a somewhat pristine state before us. Even if you catch yourself saying I know, I know this already, remind yourself that some reminders are worth reminding someone else about - so send this post their way.

In networking parlance, there are people who are known as givers, and others, who are labeled takers. No surprise, you want to be a giver. Givers have their calls returned and emails answered. The takers, not so much.

Take a moment to reflect on whether you’re a “G” or “T”.

Do you share information? Pass along job leads? Listen to someone else’s challenges (really listen, not polite nodding listening)?

Or, are you type who only reaches out when some calamity occurs in your life and you need your network to throw you a lifeline?

If you’re more “T” than “G”, then I suggest you start taking remedial action ASAP to course correct. You need the network you have to be responsive. You want them to enthusiastically take your calls, regardless of the hour (or anticipated ask).

If you’re a “G” - keep going! It’s exhausting but I promise you, this strategy pays off in spades.

*Note: you can be too much of G. Read When Generosity Backfires: The Myth of Networking Reciprocity to course correct if being so giving is derailing your career progression.

*Consider where you're directing your networking energies and what's zapping your networking time by completing the network audit in Chapter 2 of my next book, The Social Billionaire. Find the free chapter, here.

*This G&T theme was inspired by my dear friend Joyce Sullivan. We met years ago, when she’d been laid off during the 2008-2009 financial crisis. Joyce and I talk about career reinvention after the “worst” happens plus ways to rebound and find a new career direction in the BYDN podcast. Take 18 minutes for your career and take a listen.