Networking 101 - Be Authentic

THE POWER OF NETWORKING

PART 104

Be Authentic

By Nikki Viljoen of N Viljoen Consulting CC – March 2009

Dr. Renate Volpe, in her nugget cards entitled “Networking Tips” says:

“Be authentic. Choose to be consistently YOU.”

This is also something that everyone should be aware of.  It’s very easy to play a part or to try and portray the persona that you would like people to see and relate to.  The problem with this of course is that like most lies, it will eventually come out and when it does the damage that will have been done, in all probability will be irreparable. 

For me it is just easier and a whole lot less complicated to be me – warts and all.  At least that way, I don’t have to remember what I said to whom – no matter how often I tell you the tale or the story, it will be the same story because it is the truth.  No matter how many times you meet me or engage in conversation with me, it will be the same me – a few days older, perhaps a little grumpier, sometimes busier but all the same me.

Credibility is built on trust and consistency and believe me if you are not consistently who you are, your credibility will be found to be seriously in need.

Besides which – and here is the million dollar question – why would you want to be anyone other than who you are?

Be all that you can be, but be you!

For more information on Renate, please visit her website at http://www.drrenatevolpe.co.za

Nikki is an Internal Auditor and Business Administration Specialist who can be contacted on 083 702 8849 or nikki@viljoenconsulting.co.za  or http://www.viljoenconsulting.co.za