In this podcast episode, hosts Merv Jersak and Tim Jerome explore the critical role of networking in project management success. They delve into personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, sharing stories of professional growth and opportunities that arose from effective networking. Highlights include innovative strategies in manufacturing networking, a collaborative relationship with 'Bob' that spanned decades, and lessons learned from missed follow-ups. They also discuss integrating networking into project kickoffs, icebreakers, TEDx coaching, and the cultural value of shared meals. The conversation closes with a look forward to next week's episode on 'Working the Room.'

Main Take-Aways

Stories are powerful teachers. Today’s story lessons help your understanding of the need to develop your understanding of the importance of networking:

• networking to prepare for a successful upcoming event
• nurturing a networked relationship long-term, even if not expecting any career or financial benefit from the relationship
• networking within your organization to increase visibility
• following up on networking interactions for potential future opportunities
• using the power of icebreakers to advance your network
• networking outside of your industry/career to develop you professionally
• networking with educational institutions
• using your network to benefit others
• networking over shared meals and cultural experiences

Show Notes

Today’s Project Managers Coffee Chat: Leadership Lessons from the Trenches – Network, Network, Network!

01:01 Tim kicks the podcast off with an experience of using networking over a meal the night before a panel discussion to being able to conduct a very fluid conversation on stage the next day.

03:21 Merv shares about a professional relationship and friendship nurtured through networking events over two decades that eventually resulted in a recommendation for a long-term contract.

06:13 Tim recalls a time when he successfully networked within his corporation to become more visible to those needing his expertise to create value for their clients.

08:51 Merv confesses to a time when he failed to follow up on contacts made at a networking event and undoubtedly lost several opportunities.

10:48 Tim discusses using the power of icebreakers to create a networked group of skilled practitioners.

12:44 Merv has used his experience has a TEDx presentation coach to develop professional relationships outside of his career field, that were nonetheless influential in his professional development.

14:05 Tim has networked with educational institutions to participate in achieving government grant funding for a community project.

15:56 Merv used his executive position within a corporation to develop a strong network within that corporation, and was able years later to recommend one of those individuals to a highly successful contract award.

18:05 Tim and Merv share separate experiences of networking through sharing meals with colleagues and exchanging cultural experiences.