The benefits of networking


We’ve all heard the saying “it’s not what you know but who you know”. Within some industries, this is certainly more important than in others. However, for project managers, the benefits of networking are often critical to delivering great project outcomes.


The benefits of networking can take on many different forms and networking does not have to be as daunting as perhaps it once was.



The Benefits of Networking


  • It can secure your next contract or client.
  • You may find a like-minded ally, supporter, or just someone that can be relied upon to listen and provide advice.
  • You can keep up to date with what is happening in the project management profession, and your specific industry.
  • Learn about changes to technology, software, and acquire knowledge that will help you in your role as a project manager.


“The time to build a network is always before you need one”
 Business Leader, Douglas Conant.



Types of Networking


Face-to-face events

The traditional form of networking for project managers has typically been in person. Post pandemic we hope to see more face-to-face events, providing the opportunity for connecting with other professionals.


Webinars and virtual events

In the meantime, attending online events is a good way to continue networking and stay up to date.


Communities of practice

If there is an area you’re particularly interested in, there are groups that you can join. These may provide you with opportunities to connect with other project managers that you have a shared interest in and can also help you build on your knowledge in this area.


Zoom, Facetime, and Skype

These are great tools for keeping connected and communicating, especially when communicating in person isn’t an option or proves to be difficult. Ask the person you want to speak with if it’s ok to use video.

Social Networks


According to Bill Gates, “The Internet is becoming the town square for the global village of tomorrow”.
Social n
etworking on platforms such as LinkedIn can facilitate an introduction that may otherwise be hard to come by.


What to do before a Networking event


Whether you are attending a physical or online event the same principles apply.


  • Consider your goals Whether the event is in person or virtually, it is important to set some time aside to consider what you would like to achieve by attending. If you’re attending a virtual event where a particular subject is going to be covered, consider whether there are any questions you would like to ask the presenters beforehand.
  • Be authentic: When networking, be genuine with the person or group you’re speaking to. Remember everyone is in the same position as you and are looking to learn and grow in their profession by networking.
  • Follow up. Too often in either professional or social settings, there is little or no follow-up. It can be as simple as a thank you or nice to see your email.
  • Be realistic. Networking takes time – it’s not a race to collect the most business cards. Try not to be too harsh on yourself, keep at it and over time you will build a genuine network of like-minded professionals


Connecting with people or indeed businesses is not a simple process (but it’s not as hard as we think either) – it requires time and patience but can prove extremely beneficial in both the short and long term.

While networking can initially be uncomfortable, remember those that make it look natural were probably just like you once and persisted to get to the place they’re in now.

 

Click here to contact us

07 Jun, 2023
Attraction and retention “How to attract and retain talent, in the scope of major infrastructure projects” for Australian Local Government Infrastructure Yearbook 2021 https://algiy.partica.online/algiy/algiy-2021/flipbook/122/ Major Projects Conference 2022 https://www.nswconference.com.au/speakers.html Webinar Webinar briefing – sample of what we have delivered in the past (targeted at Graduates) in partnership with AIPM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Au7tNN0_tbU Are employers spending sufficient time supporting staff and building a resilient culture? What’s an acceptable staff turnover – none, 6%, 15%? https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6833872083806769152/ The Future of PMOs - PMO Vision 2030 ProNEXUS were of the PMO Vision 2030 - The Future of PMOs Workshop. The workshop was to discuss the impact and effectiveness of a PMO/EPMO function as part of the Association of International Project Management Officers (AIPMO). Feedback/what to expect from us: Extremely relevant. Massive importance trying to retain & employ Loved the presenter’s style and outlook The conversation style flowed very well Presented really well. The casual approach made for easy and open Conversation. Very relevant topic Engaging speaker, supported by presentation that was shared post meeting Good interaction, more of a conversation than a typical presentation. Nik was excellent. Great perspective and good tips There was some robust discussion particular around different views. Challenging member views was very good The casual approach made for easy and open Conversation. Good speaker, very interactive The feedback was very positive and averaged the following ratings out of 10 for your presentation:  Relevance of Topic: 9.2 Guest Speaker: 9.5
30 Dec, 2022
The role of a Project Sponsor is to work closely with the Organisation to provide governance and leadership. What makes a good Project Sponsor? An effective Project Sponsor is able to articulate and demonstrate the strategic value of a project at the Board, Organisational, and Project level. They understand the importance of developing and refining the business case and ensuring this aligns with the business strategy. The Project Sponsor typically has a depth of experience within the organisation and is a well-respected individual. The most successful Project Sponsors have a consistent track record in leadership and they are effective communicators. They have demonstrated their capability to influence all facets of the business. What does a Project Sponsor do? A Project Sponsor is part of the initial planning phase of a project. They work in collaboration with key stakeholders to determine what the key outcomes should be. They will:- Determine the availability of resources (financial and human capital) Approve project scope and changes Formulate an ongoing communication plan Work on refining the implementation strategy from project status to business as usual Approve (sign off) each phase of a project Provide support to the project and help resolve conflict or potential conflict Put in place the necessary project controls Help to mitigate risks and remove obstacles that may deter progress Be resilient and emotionally intelligent Ensure adherence to Governance standards Agree to “what success looks like” It is this macro view that adds a certain level of credibility and legitimacy. The Project Sponsor should be the key decision-maker. They are ultimately responsible for delivering the project and adding value to the organisation. The success of the project isn’t about ticking the various boxes along the way, ensuring. What does an Executive Sponsor do? While the Project Sponsor is appointed by the organisation the Executive Sponsor is appointed by the Board. The link between organisation and its project governance practices. The Executive Sponsor is usually a Senior Executive. They will have an intimate understanding of their strategy, financial position, organisational culture, and market dynamics. As such they carry a level of authority and influence beyond just being a project advocate. How much influence does an Executive Sponsor have? The Executive Sponsor will have the necessary influence to determine how a project is progressing, they are focussed on delivering beyond just quality and outcome, they want to ensure the investment yields a return from a strategic, financial, cultural, and market position. Should the Project not deliver against some or all of the pre-determined criteria the Executive Sponsor would be well within their scope to question the organisation’s investment. They can either defend or challenge the Project’s progress. Regardless of whichever position they take, they are (as a Board appointed representative) accountable to the Board. With any strategic role, all parties must take the time and make time to ensure the Project and its stakeholders (including the Board) and engaging on a regular basis. Contact Us Sources Crawford, L. & Cooke-Davies, T. (2005). Project governance: the pivotal role of the executive sponsor. Paper presented at PMI® Global Congress 2005—North America, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Newtown Square, PA: Project Management Institute. International Journal of Project Management Time and budget: the twin imperatives of a project sponsor Volume 15, Issue 3, June 1997, Pages 181-186 JNevan Wright Auckland Institute of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
21 Jul, 2022
It’s a competitive market, control what you can? If you want Control and influence in a competitive job market, it requires preparation, persistence, and above all it a positive attitude. It’s not as hard as it may seem. There are many things that you can do to put yourself in the best possible place to succeed when looking for a new position. We have broken down what you can control and influence in a competitive job market into just a few areas:-
Share by: