Description

Networking is not an easy journey for many people. Nonetheless, networking is a necessity in today’s hyperconnected world. Connection not competence is changing the world! The connection revolution rewards those who build bridges between people.

Research confirms that an open network is the biggest predictor of career success, leading to more job and business opportunities. Too often we favor a closed network – we have a preference for comfort and familiarity over discomfort and the unknown. However, a closed network limits our capacity to learn and grow. Open networks tap into cognitive diversity – the inclusion of people who have different styles of problem solving, with diverse perspectives based on varied demographics. Investing in the development of an efficient and effective open network creates a robust trampoline for navigating successful personal and professional change. Investing time and resources to make strategic connections has proven to be a n effective contingency plan if something goes wrong.

This workshop approaches networking as an acquired talent and explores popular misconceptions that impede professional success. Participants will become familiar with how to build and manage an effective network, and to troubleshoot their existing network. They will also analyze a popular case study and gain insight into the dynamic elements of networking, by outlining the steps taken to build and cultivate a network that is both broad and deep.

Learning Outcomes

  • Self-assess their networking skills
  • Explore the myths of networking that impede professional success
  • Investigate the tactics behind creating and leveraging an effective personal and professional network
  • Strengthen their confidence to expect a positive outcome by avoiding self-defeating assumptions

Duration

6 hours

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Instructor

Dr. Wendy E. O’Connor is a social psychologist, with an expertise in organizational politics. She founded Executive Spin Inc. in 2002. Her practice specializes in executive assessment and leadership coaching. Clients have expressed their appreciation for her ability to accurately understand their world, fostering an atmosphere of respect, credibility, and trust.

Dr. O’Connor’s strong analytical skills are evidenced in her successful national and regional change strategies. She is noted for bringing both academic and practical work/life experience to her client approaches. A critical ingredient is her distinctive ability to operationalize and implement a vision. The vision then acts as a catalyst for change, promoting focus and clarity of action.

Earlier in her career, she thrived in many roles with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). As a TV producer-director, and a radio/television announcer, she covered many controversial and sensitive stories. Her curiosity led her to pursue advanced degrees in social psychology. Dr. O’Connor is a graduate of St. Francis Xavier University (BA), received her MSc from Memorial University, and PhD from Carleton University.