Most workers today know it's important to cultivate a network of business contacts within their industries. Such relationships can lead to better jobs, new business opportunities and professional fulfillment. But many of these same workers overlook an equally important opportunity right in their own backyard--staying well-networked inside the company.
Staying oblivious to workplace politics and shunning company gatherings can be harmful to your own career. For starters, you don't want to be perceived as aloof or indifferent to the office culture in your company. If your coworkers or, more to the point, superiors, don't see you as a "team player," you may undermine your own efforts to advance in the company. Moreover, skipping after-hours social events, softball games or picnics will also isolate you from a crucial source of workplace intelligence--the office gossip mill. This, of course, is much more than idle gossip--it can be a wellspring of information about what's going on in your company, particularly in areas you're not always privy to.
Carefully listening to casual workplace chat can be an "early warning system" on major changes looming in the company, new projects in the pipeline, or the latest fads popular with senior management. And, spending time with colleagues keeps you in the public eye, which means you'll be less likely to be passed over for promotions, pay raises and high-profile assignments. |
Too many people fail to keep with their own company's grapevine. They seem to think, 'If I just keep my head down and do my job, I'll be fine.' But that's just not true anymore. That face time is really important."
Still, some people hate the idea of spending leisure time with co-workers. But experts say the goal should be to get a lot of mileage out of well-timed schmoozing with colleagues.
Go and work the crowds really heartily. Spend time with as many people as possible and look as cheerful as possible. Experts agree that 45 minutes of visible "face time" at a party or ballgame can go a long way toward reinforcing your in-house networks.
Of course, schmoozing will only get you so far. You still have to be good at your job. |
