Networking Lessons from a Green Beret

Many of us struggle with the notion of networking.  We know we should do it, but how do you fit it in with everything else going on?  Given that the benefits of networking are often not seen until months or years later, it’s easy to put it at the bottom of the “to-do” list.

Networking Lessons from a Green Beret

I recently read an article about the power of networking written by Josh Wathen, a former Green Beret who is successfully undertaking the transition from battlefield to boardroom. I first came to know Josh through our office manager, Saundra, who is his proud mom. In the article, Josh describes his sometimes difficult journey from elite soldier to multi-tasking entrepreneur and student. What does Josh credit as the key to his successful transition?  Networking.  Here’s an excerpt from the article:

I learned how to network and used my Special Forces groups on LinkedIn to find and acquire my Territory Manager position with Rand Brands. I applied to the Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship (WCE) and began the educational experience that challenges and consumes me today.

Click here to read the rest of Josh’s story.
Josh’s article illustrates how important building and maintaining a network can be.  In his case, the network he formerly relied upon to save his life became the means by which he changed it.  Not everyone has such a powerful network, but we all have groups and individuals that we look to for personal and professional support and guidance.  Take time to develop those relationships.  They may just change your life one day.
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