A Woman Who Could Break the Rules (of Networking)

In a swirl of energy and motion, she moved from group to group introducing herself with a flashing smile, “Hello, I’m Quentin Bryce.”  Pausing for the briefest time, Ms Bryce quickly deserted our group.  Smoothly and graciously she swept off to greet the next group of business women at the function.

This encounter happened ten years ago in 2002.  Ms Bryce was yet to be appointed as the Governor of Queensland and subsequently as the first woman to be the Governor-General of Australia.  Is it possible that, in her mind, her future direction into these high offices was already mapped out?  More than likely, she knew where and what she wanted to achieve.  Did Ms Bryce break one of the classic rules of business networking, namely not to flit from group to group without engaging group members in conversation?  Yes, she did break this “rule” and yet she was charming and gracious at the same time.  She knew the rules but being a woman in a hurry, a woman who was on a personal mission, somehow for her, the rules had no force upon her actions. 

To reach her full potential, Ms Bryce needed to be known for her personal qualities and achievements by those who could open doors and make decisions about future opportunities.  She built very strong reserves of social capital, particularly in her home state of Queensland.  Frequently quoted in the media, she became a recognised and connected public figure within legal, business and government circles. 



A Woman of Firsts, Her Excellency, the Governor General of Australia

With all her experience and achievements, there can be no doubt Ms Bryce earned her prestigious positions on the basis of meritocracy.  However, where she far exceeded any other contenders, is in her social and emotional intelligences.  These so-termed personal intelligences have enabled Ms Bryce to influence and inspire others in many different spheres of Australian society.
 
Returning to our theme of business networking, we must firstly learn and practise the rules and etiquette.  Only after we have developed our social skills and confidence to the highest levels can we break these rules from time to time with the skills and personal magnetism of someone like our current Governor-General.  

If you wish to raise your business networking expertise to the highest levels, join us for the Networking Plus Half-Day workshop on Wednesday, 17^th October, 2012; for details please click here.  We look forward to seeing you there.

To your Networking Success!

 
 

Lynne Lloyd

Managing Director
People Results
1300 167 981

enquiries@peopleresults.com.au

www.peopleresults.com.au