What is the most important thing you can do for yourself now? It’s this: stay in the conversation. Like water, information and ideas flow constantly in extraordinary, complex streams. Don’t isolate yourself. Stay in the communication flow as you job search, think about a new career, re-enter the workplace or market your own products and services. Don’t get left out in the cold when it comes to communication and connection.

Do you know what conversations people in your industry are having? What are the hot topics? What new ideas do they find intriguing? What are they reading? What are the significant trends, new information sources, emerging players, the scuttlebutt?

Why care about this immense flow of information? Because being in the exchange sharpens your thinking. You’ll be more conversant on current issues, well-informed and better prepared.

3 ways you can enter the information flow

It will take intent and some effort on your part to step into the stream and to continue your participation. Start here.

1. Get out more. Attend meetings, workshops and events. Where are you most likely to find the most knowledgeable people in your field? Who are the influencers? Identify professional associations, trade groups, special interest groups and industry events. Actively network. Try them out. See how it goes. Give it time. Find organizations through local listings. Also see WEDDLE’s Association Directory.

2. Keep in touch! Take former and current colleagues out for coffee, drop them a line, give them a call. Friendly relationships with associates will yield interesting information, new ideas and connections. Meet in person occasionally to talk shop. Face-to-face time strengthens trust and rapport.

3. Participate on social media websites and contribute to online communities. But have a strategy. Monitor your time carefully and weigh the benefits to you. For professional connections, LinkedIn—with over 60 million members worldwide—is a winner. Once you’ve set up an account, complete your professional profile. Join groups in your interest area. Jump into the discussion. Listen, learn, contribute.

Stay in the know

Many formal and informal communication opportunities are open to you. Take full advantage of them. Maximize your experience and weigh the benefits as you go along. Choose to participate.

You could not step twice into the same river; for other waters are ever flowing on to you. -Heraclitus, Greek philosopher

Today’s question
Are you staying plugged-in to the information flow vital to your professional success?