’Connectworking’

It isn’t easy to pronounce, but it came to me some weeks back when a few of us were talking about the power of networks in determining the next phase of our careers. When I picked up on an aversion to networking and someone said that they don’t like doing it because they hate asking for help, I offered a different perspective.

When I left federal service early (one of the lucky ones that wasn’t forced out), I realized I didn’t have a network in the career area I was pursuing (nonprofit work). So I started with people I respected and asked if they knew anyone in the nonprofit world. I made a conscious decision to not turn down anyone willing to have a conversation with me. There were no expectations in these conversations, just getting to know one another. I stayed curious and open-minded, and after several coffees and lunches I found myself in a powerful network of women that energize and inspire me. It hasn’t led to paid work yet, but I now have a very strong network in the nonprofit world and a new-found confidence in my capability to lead in this new field. When sharing this with my colleagues, I realized that I wasn’t networking - I was connecting. Each conversation was about connecting with another human being, sharing stories, inspiring each other, being vulnerable, and being gracious. That courage to say “yes” when I was introduced to someone new, and my love of connecting with other humans turned the stigma-ridden word of “networking” into “Connectworking.”

So here’s to your connectingworking journey, Everyone. May it open your world to new possibilities that align to your passion and give you a sense of belonging.