April 8, 2024
We continue building our resident’s Workforce Development skills. Last week, we focused on effective writing. This week, we will learn skills for networking. Staff will use this language in interactions with our residents this week. These simple steps are important for everyone. Read below to see how you can learn useful skills and work strategies from people in your network.
Topic: Networking
• Building rapport. Building rapport with someone you meet allows you to fit interests that you may have in common. You can ask questions and explain your own interests and goals.
• Developing the relationship. Once you meet someone, you can continue to develop the relationship. You can interact with them on social media to stay in touch and keep up with what they are doing. You can also connect through email, text, or phone calls. Exchange information to share the ways that others can contact you, such as phone numbers, email, and social media information.
• Following up. When you meet someone who mentions an opportunity that you may be interested in, it’s a good idea to follow up with them. This reminds them of what you had talked about, keeps the relationship going, and can help you meet other people to extend your network.
Networking allows you to meet people who can help you fulfill a goal. These relationships can help in your career, provide you with support and advice, and offer resources to help in your current job and referrals to other jobs. You may also find collaborators and mentors through networking.
Questions about the Workforce Development program at Providence House? Contact Dr. Whittney Polley, Director of Education at 318-221-7887 or wpolley@theprovidencehouse.com.