Let's Take a Closer Look at the Four Elements
Trust
A belief that people and institutions are conducting their relations in good faith and that no individual will act solely out of self-interest.
Reciprocity
The principle that people help others in return for help they have received in the past. Reciprocity increases connections by bridging networks which in turn increases benefits.
Information
Access to information through friends, colleagues, and acquaintances. Thereby increasing one's knowledge and their access to opportunities.
Collective Action
Social networks that collaborate to make a difference and increase solidarity within the network. Many times collective action develop new networks.
Tips on Building Social Capital Through Networking
One: Network Proactively
You should use every opportunity to meet new people, schedule a set time to network if needed. Developing your network before you need it can reduce stress when you are looking for a new job, reduce the time it takes to find someone with a specific skill set, and it can even open you to opportunities that you didn't even know existed.
Two: Network Strategically
Identify who you know and who you need to know to reach your goals. ~ Bonnie Marcus, Leadership
Networking is more than saying hello and giving someone your contact information. To create a strong network, you need to build solid relationships. To do this when you meet someone new, ask questions that help identify common goals, beliefs, values, and needs. This will help you determine how you can develop a mutually beneficial relationship.
Three: Network with Diversity in Mind
It is a disadvantage to build your network with people who are just like you. Strive to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise. Diversity expands the resources and benefits available to you.
Four: Build Trust Through Consistency
When networking, build trust by being consistent. Always sell yourself first and follow through on any promises. Watch the video below more information.
Five: Leverage Relationships
Once trust is established within your relationships, be willing to help others and to ask for help when you need it. These relationships must be reciprocal to ensure they are mutually beneficial.
Six: Stay in Contact
To ensure your network stays strong, keep in touch and nurture existing relationships. You never know when you or someone in your network will need support. Always be on the lookout for ways to support members of your network.
Seven: Use Social Media
Social media assists you in connecting with people who have similar interests, values, education, and passions. Keep your social media accounts up to date with current information so that people who are looking to expand their network can see how a mutually beneficially relationship can be established.
Click the link below to learn how to create, maintain a LinkedIn profile.
So You Think You Don't Have a Network...
Think again... Open and complete the worksheet at the link below.
Why has Social Capital declined over the last 25 years?
Family dinners down 43%
Having friends over down 35%
Attending club meetings down 58%
Watching commercial entertainment TV is the only leisure activity where doing more of it is associated with lower social capital.
Every ten minutes of commuting reduces all forms of social capital by 10%.
Did You Know...
Joining and participating in one group increases your ability to stay healthy.
Reflection:
How will you use your social capital to achieve your future goals?
Explore the K12 Career Education Navigator
The K12 Career Technical Education (CTE) Navigator helps you explore high school courses and career pathways offered across San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Browse by industry sector, county, school district, and more to find options that match your interests and career goals and see how these pathways can prepare you for college, certifications, apprenticeships, or the workforce.
Credits:
Created with images by Unknown - "Social Media Connection Network · Free image on Pixabay" • PublicDomainPictures - "hands puzzle pieces connect" • Efraimstochter - "detective magnifying glass viewing" • TheDigitalArtist - "network internet connection" • jarmoluk - "strategy chess board game" • truthseeker08 - "hands teamwork team-spirit" • LisaAttractLove - "trust faith encouragement" • geralt - "handshake shaking hands peaceful" • Tumisu - "contact us contact email" • geralt - "mobile phone smartphone keyboard" • Paul_Henri - "sound space network wires" • Unknown - "having-dinner-together-with-the-family image - Free stock ..."