The 5 W's of Networking

We all need a community - people we can call on when things get tough and we need a hand. A network is nothing more than friends helping friends. Here's the 5 W's to making that happen.

1. Who: You can learn from anyone so be curious with everyone you meet, from taxi cab drivers to restaurant proprietors. Each may have a contact to help you reach your goals. And, if they don't, you may be surprised to find that there is someone in their network who does!
2. What: Form relationships which aren't all about you, but rather are all about "us." Send others articles of interest, introduce them to your friends, comment on their Facebook page, and give them glowing recommendations. If you work for them, it will come back to you.
3. When: Begin at birth or, at the very least, start today. Always form a network before you need it. Don't wait until you are out of work or trying to raise money for an important project or idea. It's the old adage, "build it and they will come."
4. Where: You can network at the office, at a club or acting as a volunteer. It doesn't matter if you collect miniatures or curl, if you follow your passion, you'll meet others who are doing what you love to do. Creating a bond with them will happen very naturally.
5. Why: Business happens between people who know each other, like each other and trust each other. People who are part of my community have recommended excellent suppliers, put my name forward for bookings for and supported my causes, amongst many other things. I've certainly accomplished more in life with them than I would have done without them.
6. How: Get to know others authentically, on a soul-level. That means getting past stereo-types and generalizations. It means revealing a weakness so others believe you are human and sharing what you like to do for fun so they will know that you are more than your job. It is easier to network if you relax and be yourself!

Even if the sky looks dark and full of clouds, having a network means that you'll have people you can call on. And, like the song says, "Ain't it good to know that you've got a friend?"

After a highly successful career in business, including 26 years with PotashCorp where she was Senior Vice-President, Betty-Ann retired in 2007, the same year that she was named to Canada's Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Hall of Fame™. She now works as a speaker, author and mentor and is committed to using her personal and professional experiences to inspire and empower other women. A firm believer in the value women bring to organizations, Betty-Ann explores changing perceptions of male and female roles including candid observations about what she calls "Good Gender Physics" on her blog at

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