The Impact of Networking: Pay it Forward

By Tim Augustine

In 1992, I had the honor of being initiated into Delta Sigma Pi. At the time I had no idea the fraternity would have such an influential impact on my life. Because of this impact, I have made a significant effort to remain active and give back the past 18 years. Each year, I am honored to hold seminars at national and regional events. There I offer one-on-one coaching to chapters and individuals. Over the years I have interacted with hundreds of active Deltasigs and accomplished Alumni, building friendships and a network that spans the globe.

When I was asked to write this article, I reflected on several topics beginning with our current economy, the job market, globalization of industry and challenges faced as students of commerce. I then remembered an article I found while reading my most recent Northwestern Alumni newsletter. In the article I spotted an interesting quote about networking. ―Follow-up by giving first, before asking for anything: Networking is a two-way street, where you get more when you give first.‖ Based on current economic conditions and the continued strength of the fraternity, I felt an article addressing the power of networking within the fraternity would be appropriate.

Pay it Forward

It is estimated that the average person knows about 250 people, in turn each of these people know another 250 people. Therefore for each new person you meet, you gain access to a potential pool of 62,500 people separated from you by just two degrees!

Consider our brothers of Delta Sigma Pi; each possessing unique skills, abilities, experiences and accomplishments, the traits which continue to position DSP as the Foremost Business Fraternity.

In 2010, I challenge you to network by taking advantage of your brotherhood and two degrees of separation, but remember to first Pay-it-Forward.

The concept of Pay-it-Forward is founded on the principle of reciprocity and begins when someone gives you something you weren’t expecting. It inspires you to return the favor in some way. We all need advice, constructive criticism and mentorship. The success of Pay-it-forward comes when we actively seek advice, or engage others by giving freely of our talents, expertise and time which is the key principle of authentic networking.

Networking is the art of meeting people and benefiting from those relationships. It is a lifelong activity based on trust, support and a genuine interest in helping others. Within an established relationship you will continue to learn, grow and find ways to continue helping each other succeed. This cycle of giving back to the network that helps you, is the concept of Pay-it-Forward!

However, a caution: don’t be disappointed if some people don’t spring forward to reciprocate immediately. The ―good karma‖ you’ve generated will return the favor down the road – maybe not from this person – but from places you might not expect.

I have found that even small Pay-it-Forward acts can make the greatest difference in a brother’s life.

During a recent LEAD event, I challenged the audience to meet and network with fifteen brothers during the weekend. During these meetings, they were to uncover each other’s career goals and figure out how they could help each other. If they accomplished this and sent me an email, I would give them a signed copy of my book. Not only did I receive 62 emails (and 62 more people to add to my personal network), I also received a copy of a business card from one of the participants stating that the introduction in Newport Beach helped him land his first job.

A friend and Alumni brother recently received an unsolicited resume from a collegian brother. Although, he did not have any openings in his firm he reviewed the resume and noticed a few minor errors. He called the candidate and discussed suggested corrections. Through conversation, the two learned they were both originally from the same home town. The alumni brother offered to give further support and encouragement by critiquing the resume, making a few introductions, and providing an industry overview. Ultimately the brother landed a job as a Product Support Analyst in Chicago after an introduction from the Alumni.

Helping others and providing advice, encouragement and support is the key fabric that can keep brotherhood strong. Advice can range from Career development, financial management, business acumen, or simple lessons learned. As a simple example, I asked a few alumni what advice they would like to share with collegian brothers. I thought it might spark an idea or two when you are networking with brothers.

In addition to general advice, another timely topic is the job market and job search assistance. With an unemployment rate hovering at 10%, networking is a critical skill to leverage. If you receive advice or assistance for your resume, interviewing, or salary negotiation, think about how you can share it with others. Keep your eyes open for job opportunities and share these leads with others who might fit the role. Offer to review and critique a resume, role-play an interview scenario, or introduce a brother to someone in your network. If you are currently working, find opportunities for brothers by providing a job or internship with in your firm. Utilizing social networking sites like Facebook and Linked-in can also be helpful in making introductions.

How can you help?

Take a moment and reflect on the advice you have received and the support you have been provided. How has this helped you personally and professionally? How can you use this information and Pay-it-forward to someone else?

There are many successful brothers in this fraternity who are willing to share their life experiences, leadership and guidance. As you navigate through 2010 and interact with active brothers and alumni, be generous in sharing your talents, knowledge, and ideas. In addition, always be respectful and demonstrate appreciation to those who Pay-it-Forward and provide a helping hand, a lesson-learned or a word of encouragement. Let 2010, be the year we look inward to help each other and in return seek help. Utilize your networking talents to build friendships, make connections and learn new things. Do your best to Pay-it-Forward to help others who could benefit from your knowledge, skills and life-experiences.

"We should take the lessons learned from what we hear today and apply it to achieve your dreams or enable the dreams of others. And as you get older, you may find that “enabling the dreams of others” is even more fun."— Randy Pausch (The Last Lecture)

Editor’s Note:Brother Augustine, Beta Pi 1992; is an entrepreneur, business owner, author and professional speaker of How Hard Are You Knocking? The Job Seekers Guide to Opening Career Doors (Oakhill Press 1996, 2005). His seminars and book have been featured in national media including numerous radio and television appearances and presented to over 350 organizations throughout the United States. He also writes a monthly column for Inc. Magazine, Fast Company and Monster.com focusing on topics pertaining to the career development and people strategies of successful organizations. Learn more about him and view other useful career search topics at www.howhardareyouknocking.com