Emerging leaders: How to enhance your status

Have you ever witnessed an individual in your company receive a promotion that you wanted, or felt the frustration of a competitor getting a client contract for which you were vying?
Assuming that you were equally qualified, the question then becomes this: What other factors might impact an individual's ability to get to the next level of professional success?
There is no doubt that talent, focus and drive are three attributes that are needed to successfully climb the corporate ladder or gain clients. But it is also important to have strong connections and advocates who support you. The best way to make those valuable contacts is through networking.

Unfortunately, the concept of “networking” can evoke a strong negative reaction from some individuals. It is often seen as a behavior that only requires the ability to “schmooze” at an event, rather than a construct that necessitates acquiring a complex set of relationship skills.

Good networking entails more than being outgoing or an extrovert. After meeting someone and initially making a positive impression, you must be able to develop a meaningful rapport with an individual while simultaneously demonstrating your expertise and value. Furthermore, being able to intentionally execute on those networking skills can critically impact your influence as a leader and/or business owner.