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This month, we’re sharing resources to guide you through finding and developing valuable professional relationships (think networking, affinity groups, and allyship).
I don’t know about you, but the further I get in my career, the more I realize that there is so much more to professional contentment beyond a good day’s work. It’s the relationships I develop—whether that be at a conference or networking event, in the office, or sitting on a virtual panel—that I find to be some of the most fulfilling aspects of my work. The simple knowledge that I’m surrounded by folks I can learn from and grow with can be all I need to get through an especially challenging day.
This month we’re taking a closer look at some relationships that can prove invaluable, no matter where you are in your professional or academic career. We’ll dig into how to create and nurture each of these important relationships, as well the benefits of keeping them active and authentic.
- For so many of us, the last year and half has resulted in feelings of disconnection. And while the pre-COVID workplace may not have been the first place we would turn to for support, that’s all changing as many employers are now embracing the concept of office affinity groups. Organizations are proactively shifting workplace morale and increasing staff engagement by creating space for employee resource and affinity groups. Here’s how to start or join an employee resource group as well as some of the benefits.
- While there is a lot of talk about allyship these days, plenty of our readers (myself included!) have a lot of questions about how to be an effective ally in the workplace. If you’re looking for an accessible guide on your path to being a respectful and informed ally, start here.
- Never underestimate the power of good old fashioned networking! I know, I know; the thought of networking with gusto can send chills down the spine of even the most extroverted social-impact professional. But here’s the thing: I can honestly trace nearly every opportunity I’ve had (professionally, academically, and even personally) back to a relationship developed via networking. Here are some useful tips for networking, and while this resource focuses on grad school, you can apply these to just about any aspect of your life where you’re looking to expand your community.
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And finally, a nod to community building. While it may feel like a bit of a departure from the types of relationships highlighted in the resources above, hear me out! Volunteering, local advocacy, or even just helping a neighbor are all beautiful and accessible ways to act locally and invest in your community. And so for this month’s “fourth thing,” I’m excited to invite you to learn how to start a community fridge or a mutual aid group in your area! Join Idealist and Mott Haven Fridge Network on Monday, August 30, for a free, virtual event.
If you have questions or feedback about any of the resources shared in this edition, I’m here for all of it. And if you have your own story to share, we encourage that too! Respond directly to this newsletter or send me a message at alexis_p@idealist.org.
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