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Are networking groups only for those starting in business? No. We need connections throughout our lives, and the need continues in midlife and later years. While we may not need help with a job or referrals, we have emotional needs that networking groups well serve.
Here are 3 reasons why we need networking groups as we age:
1. Community. Everyone needs a community to feel connected to the world outside of themselves. Networking groups provide local and global relationships that can enhance the sense of meaning in our lives.
2. Support. Networking groups are known for their support, not just for finding a job, clients, or referrals but for personal assistance.
3. Resource. Networks are like a web of knowledge, skills, and advice beyond individuals' jobs. Networking groups are a treasure trove of information ready to be tapped into.
Fred Klein co-founded Gotham City Networking 25 years ago when he was 55 years old with the mantra "It's better to give than receive, but what goes around, comes around."
Klein, a lawyer specializing in labor relations since 1967, sees networking as a magic wand. But it wasn't how he initially saw networking. Twenty-five years ago, someone asked him to attend a networking breakfast. He initially declined. His colleague finally convinced him, and he was nervous because he felt shy and insecure, even though he was a successful lawyer who owned his firm).
Klein had reservations about joining a group of professionals, thinking they would badger him for referrals and get after him for dues. Eventually, he kicked aside his reservations and got on board. He enjoyed it so much that he formed his own networking group with colleague Nancy Schess and their connections. Now that Klein is 80 years old, he spends most of his time with Gotham City Networking and finds it fulfilling and emotionally satisfying. "At our age, we're fighting not to be invisible."
Being part of a networking group allows him to be visible to others and to remain valued and relevant: "Well, it validates me. I am a shy person faking it with bravado every day at work, but the true validation is when I reach out and use my magic powers on behalf of someone who appreciates it and then gives back. The circle is full."
Dr. Odey Raviv has been a networking group member, and he found a way to grow his group to fit his needs by starting Encores, a subgroup of a larger networking group with a mission "dedicated to supporting those of us who are ready to take the plunge away from a total work focus. We are dedicated to finding ways to make this exciting stage rewarding and satisfying as we discuss wellness, culture, travel, mentoring, volunteering, food, financial security, and a host of other issues."
Encores grew out of Raviv's need to have more than just business-related interactions in his networking circle. "I thought that part of the usual networking meeting is always the elevator pitch, trying to get more clients and business. When you're young, and your career is at the beginning, it's a necessity, but after a while, when you're career is at its peak, or it's okay, you think about what's next. So I figured it would be a good idea to start a group that addresses retirement and what is on the horizon beyond work." It turns out the idea resonated with others.
Every month Raviv convenes the group with a speaker whose expertise is providing knowledge and resources relevant to the post-40 members. The focus is on "what's next" rather than "what's now." The group is an emotional resource providing community, support, and resources for its members who are facing retirement, have retired, or are preparing for what life offers outside of work.
Networking groups are needed to help us get a foot in the door when we are starting out, but over time, we come to value the emotional aspects of networking. As we grow older, the community, security, and resources offered by networking groups are emotional anchors for us. We remain connected and relevant, and we are able to give back our expertise to newcomers—which is, as Klein says, brings it all full circle.
