Networking in Norristown: How can we help each other?

Living in Norristown for the past decade or so, I have made loads of great connections. I've gotten to know some of the employees of my municipality, community leaders in local businesses and nonprofits, and educators and staff of the nearby community college just to highlight a small part of my Norristown network.

Recently, I've worked to increase the quality of connections in my community. The difference in my approach recently was making a conscious effort to learn about my network--becoming more aware of the opportunities and challenges in my community, and finding places I might be able to contribute value.

So, I attended a meeting about Norristown's Capital Improvement Plan. I went to hear an amazing poet discuss her work at the community college. I even checked out a locally owned restaurant I had heard about, but never visited. (Do yourself a favor and try the mac-n-cheese at Temeka Murray's restaurant, Diva's Kitchen!) I learned a LOT and met some really terrific people along the way.

I've just begun to make contributions in hopes of deepening these relationships. I've shared municipal news on social media. At the poetry discussion, I introduced myself to a community college staff member and told her about an initiative she would be interested in. I volunteered for an area leadership development workshop for high school girls. I've even started a group on LinkedIn for folks who do business in and near Norristown.

Each of these interactions has increased the profile of my own small career coaching business, and my network has grown slowly but surely with each opportunity to engage. By sharing resources, knowledge and talent with each other, we make Norristown stronger for the good of the community and each of us builds a stronger network as well.

Give it a try, and you'll discover benefits for your network as well. Networking in Norristown makes our community stronger!

Lynn Carroll is a career coach and higher education consultant. Connect with her on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/lynncarrol... or visit www.lynncareercoach.com.