We’re all familiar with the saying “It’s better to give than to receive.” A recent study has given scientific proof that providing support to others provides health benefits to the giver, in addition to the one receiving the support. While I appreciate the science, I’ve known the benefits of giving for a long time, and in my experience, there’s an incredible correlation between giving and receiving when it comes to career support.

This holiday season, I’m encouraging you to offer and give career support to individuals in your network and prepare for the benefits that will come your way in return. I believe it’s the most powerful and authentic way to build and maintain a powerful network, strong connections, and access to opportunities and support. Here is my top list of ideas for supporting others. I look forward to hearing your ideas as well.

1. Introductions:  Think about people you know who would benefit from meeting others in your network. In five to ten minutes, you can create a warm introduction by email and share your thoughts on how the two might benefit professionally from knowing one another. If you have colleagues who are particularly focused on job seeking at the moment, invite them to review your connections list, and let them request people they would appreciate connecting with.
    
2. Recommendations and Endorsements:  If you aren’t endorsing and recommending your outstanding business associates proactively, you’re missing a great opportunity to build relationship capital. An unsolicited recommendation posted to an associate’s LinkedIn, Viadeo or other profile will delight the recipient, and in all likelihood, the favor will be enthusiastically returned.
    
3. Support: Let’s face it – these are tough times and some of the most exceptionally talented executives are pounding the pavement. Check in with those in your network who are actively looking, offer your time to listen to their challenges or brainstorm their job search strategy. Take it a step further by recognizing that one challenge an out-of-work executive faces is the lack of daily business decisions that naturally keep one engaged and sharp. By asking for advice on a business situation you’re navigating, you’re providing a confidence boost for the jobseeker who might suddenly feel re-valued, and you’ll likely receive true expertise around your challenge.

I’d love to hear your ideas on this topic, and I’ll be back next week with my thoughts on the Grinch and how being ruthless can also prove equally in purposeful networking.

Best,

Glenda
This article was written by Glenda K. Brown,the AESC’s Managing Director of Strategic Alliances and a lifelong serial connector, networker, friend and alliance builder.  If you need career support, advice on business etiquette, or the world’s best coconut cake, Glenda is your source.

BlueSteps is the exclusive service of the AESC that puts senior executives on the radar screen of over 8,000 executive search professionals in more than 75 countries. Be visible, and be considered for up to 75,000 opportunities handled by AESC search firms every year. Find out more at www.BlueSteps.com.