Your professional network must extend behind the four walls of your current employment. If you allow yourself to become too insular within your company, you are putting yourself at unnecessary career and business risk. It’s good to diversify your business network by connecting with new and different people on a regular basis.

Q: When was the last time you left your office to meet with someone purely for networking purposes?

Making time to network with new people is one of the habits of highly successful business people.

How can it become your habit? Plan to connect with a different person from your external network at least once a week. If you like consistency in your schedule, carve out the same day/time of the week for networking outside of work. I strongly recommend that you meet away from your regular place of business to open your mind to new ideas and new conversations.

What can you do? Invite someone different to meet you for morning coffee, lunch or dinner. If time permits, play some golf together or set up time for a walk and talk networking meeting. Arrange to drive together to an external meeting or conference.

Getting out of the office is good for business! Spending quality time with people in your business network will enhance your relationship with them. It will also keep you vital, visible and connected to a broader sphere of influence.

Goal for this week

Set aside a small block of time (1-2 hours) this coming week to meet face to face with someone in your active network or a new connection that has been recommended to you. Make it a priority in this week’s schedule. Don’t cancel, even if you are stressed out with your current project load. See how great it feels to connect with people outside of your work/office. It’s invigorating…and essential for your health of your business network. Now make it a weekly habit.

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