Netweaving

As college students, we hear the word “networking” thrown around all over campus.  We hear it from our parents, our professors, and even our peers in many instances.  Whenever the career fair rolls around at UGA, my email inbox is flooded with notifications about this tremendous “networking” opportunity.  After all, we do have future careers to prepare for.  And what better way to prepare for our future career than to go “network” with potential employers who could land us that summer internship?

Don’t get me wrong, I believe networking is a good thing.  It provides us a chance to step out of our comfort zones and build new relationships in seek of future opportunity.  In addition, the skills we build from networking enhance our communication skills across the mediums of listening, speaking, and writing.  However, I am convinced that when emphasis is placed strictly on the personal gain you hope to realize through networking, you limit yourself to the impact and fulfillment that comes when genuine relationships are forged for the benefit of others.  This is an idea that many define as Netweaving.  As Netweavers International describes it, a netweaver is some one who is “consistently looking and listening for ways to help someone – no strings attached – simply as a way of building trusted relationships.” Not only does a netweaver create “win-win” situations for others, a netweaver creates “win-win-win-win” situations simply by connecting others with the people, resources, and information they may benefit from, without seeking personal gain.  And therein lies the positive influence and impact that abounds from netweaving.

The greatest leaders that I know are also the best Netweavers I have ever known.  I don’t think this is by chance.  They are not chocked full of charisma or charm and many do not consider themselves to be extroverted.  Rather, they choose to be well intentioned in serving others through building authentic relationships.  The selfless initiatives they take to invest in others reflect their hearts of servant-leadership.  In turn, the personal fulfillment they reap and new opportunities they encounter are reciprocates of the positive influence they exhibit.  Often times, these reciprocates are far greater than any opportunity afford by a “me” based approach to relationships.  Overtime, a large tapestry of intertwined relationships focused on serving others forms.  When this happens, positive world change happens.

Question:  What steps can you take this school year to become a netweaver on your campus?

Check out http://netweaving.com