Why I stopped chasing for networking
When I clicked “events” on facebook wall, I have seen many events popping up like flowers blooming for spring. And, I was just checking the description and speakers list and nothing has made me felt like excited to learn this new shiny thing.
I have started working on my family business which offers accounting, auditing and advisory services to businesses. Apparently, we met with a crazy amount of clients every single day and there are days that I completely shut off my phone and email just to work on my own projects. I listen people, solve their issues and communicate with them. And, during weekends and after work hours, I am not sure if I still need to make so-called-professional networking. One thing that I have learnt from Partner-level bosses that I had had of course, is “don’t chase people so that you let them chase you”. As much as I did not understand at the very beginning of my career, I now believe in the integrity and professional ethics of individuals. You do not need to start giving out your business cards to random people. If one client is satisfied with my service, he or she will let his or her circle know about my service.
Most importantly, I should be spending my time to prepare the best service I can offer to the client whom come and chase me. As a service provider, if you are confident enough, you do not have to go around people and convince how good you are. Educational credentials, practices and ethics are the ones which prove you are better than other service providers in the field.
Does the social capital play an important role? It can be to a certain extent, yet as a young professional, I have so much skills to fulfill. I cannot afford to waste my time enjoying cocktail with the excuse of socializing. If I need a drink, I rather hit the bard alone to order one myself. I am not against to meeting vital figures who shape the economy, policy or major field. Yet, I highly doubt those important figures will make a personal connection with me just by meeting once in an event.
To conclude, success and even social capital is a long-term growth. It takes years and years to have a good reputation and unfortunately, the circle who I am hanging out actually represents me too. And, my circle might be small, but I have built this since we were in middle school. So, no more new friends as I have already a cool gang!
