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Digital Enterprise Society is the authority on the transformation to a digital enterprise, impacting all areas of an organization. Tune in for discussions among industry leaders about operations and action needed to drive digitization principles forward for the future of product development and life cycles. 

In this episode, Thom Singer welcomes Sarah Michel, the VP of Professional Connexity for Velvet Chainsaw Consulting.  Sarah has simple and doable advice for taking your networking efforts to the next level at every stage of your career.  Networking will define the level of success you are able to achieve in your career, and while it doesn’t require self promotion or transactional interactions, it does require intentional relationship building efforts.  To learn about the kinds of networks that you need in your career and how to start developing them today, don't miss this episode of the Digital Enterprise Society podcast.

On today’s podcast, you will learn:

Networking Basics for Beginners

• Build digital networks on commonalities such as education and work experience.
• Establish long-term relationships before you need to ask anyone for anything.
• There is never a better time to start building networks than today. 
• Seek opportunities to be a resource for others to increase your exposure to new opportunities.
• Identify mentors, ask questions, and then listen to and learn from their answers.

The Value of Building Relationships Within Your Company

• Networking isn’t only beneficial when you’re making a change in your career.
• Volunteer for opportunities to increase your visibility among colleagues. 
• Identify people that will assist in promotions and new opportunities. 
• The ‘strength of weak ties’ illustrates the importance of a wide-reaching network.

Simple Ways to Extend Your Network Beyond Your Company

• Don’t be afraid to ask for advice at a cup of coffee meeting- and pay for the coffee!
• Stand out by writing a hand-written note after you connect with someone.
• Look for opportunities to pay it forward in all of your networking circles.
• Make the effort to attend live events and maximize your time there with a list of contacts clear intentions, and prompt follow-up.

Continue the conversation with us within the Digital Enterprise Society Community at www.DigitalEnterpriseSociety.org.

Guest Bio:

Sarah Michel is Vice President of Professional Connexity for Velvet Chainsaw Consulting helping organizations deliver on the networking promise at face to face meetings. Sarah is an Experience Architect who has been working in the meetings industry for over 20 years to create dynamic audience experiences.  She is a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) awarded by the National Speakers Association and a nationally recognized expert on networking and the creator of the NetWORTHing® process.  Sarah has keynoted and facilitated for audiences and organizations around the world on how to be a more effective connector and is the author of Perfecting Connecting©, A Guide to Mastering Networking in the Workplace and coauthor of the e-book Conference Connexity.