Company News

Ask Julia: Convenience-Store Women’s Event Partner Leading Now Answers Retailer’s Questions

How leaders can leverage their network to find expertise that’s out of their realm
Women at work
Photograph: Shutterstock

This month’s question focuses on a challenge most professionals encounter multiple times in their careers—finding the resources needed for a project that requires knowledge or expertise beyond their own. The solution often lies in tapping into your network of resources.

How do I find an expert or resource(s) when working on a project and need information or expertise that I don’t have?

This is the perfect time to leverage your network! Building both internal and external strategic relationships is crucial. Be intentional in cultivating your network so you have the right people and resources to reach out to when needed.

Below are some tips to help you identify which networks to engage to achieve your project goals successfully:

  • Demonstrate your strategic acumen: Our research at Leading NOW shows that when asked, bosses perceive that women don’t leverage internal or external networks as effectively as their male counterparts. It’s time to change that perception. Show that you can use your networks strategically to deliver business results. The best time to build your network is before you need it. Prioritize networking so that when a project arises, you already have the resources at hand.
  • Internal networks: Everyone you work with can become part of your strategic workplace network. These relationships are critical for breaking down barriers, accessing resources and acquiring information within your organization; however, you must invest time in cultivating these relationships if you want to leverage them when needed. Consider which individuals or departments may have access to the information you need for your project. Once identified, determine who within those areas can best assist you. If you don’t know someone directly, ask a connection to introduce you.
  • External networks: Sometimes, external resources may be more suitable for your project. External networks typically include four key groups: Customers/Suppliers, Professional Associations,Industry Organizations, and Marketplace Influencers.

Think about how you can engage these groups:

  1. Customers/Suppliers: Their perspectives are often different from yours. They can inspire innovation, provide insights on market trends and inform you about emerging products.
  2. Professional Associations: These groups may help you build new skills or improve existing ones with peer support, such as public speaking or project management.
  3. Industry Organizations: These are excellent for accessing research, legal and regulatory updates or specialized tools. You can also build skills like board service or committee leadership through involvement with these organizations.
  4. Marketplace Influencers: Theses bring specialized knowledge and broad networks. Establishing relationships with them can enhance your reputation and credibility by association.

Whether you seek resources internally or externally, be bold, direct and clear when asking for help.

Always remember that networking is about generosity. Acknowledge the time and resources others have shared by expressing gratitude. After applying the information provided, follow up to share the impact of your project and how their contribution played a role in its success.

Networking is also about reciprocity. Offer to return the favor by saying, “I’d be happy to help you in the future,” or “Is there anything you’re working on that I could assist with?” or simply, “Thanks, I owe you.”

When you build strong networks and have resources readily available, you demonstrate the strategic acumen needed to ensure your project’s success.

To Submit a Question

If you have a question for Julia, simply submit your question to Julia.lazzara@leadingnow.biz. While we can’t promise she will be able to answer all of the questions she receives, our goal is to provide you with the insights and advice you need to have a successful career.

Julia Lazzara is the president of Leading NOW, an organization shaping the future of workplace dynamics by advocating women’s advancement and engaging male allies to bring gender balance to leadership. Leading NOW is a founding partner and educational content provider for CSP’s C-Store Women’s Event (CSW). Reach her at julia.lazzara@leadingnow.biz.

Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.

Multimedia

Exclusive Content

Technology/Services

Most 7-Eleven rewards members use self-checkout but few use it every time

Faster transactions, shorter lines and ease of use drive interest, age-restricted items and technical issues still pose barriers

Mergers & Acquisitions

How convenience stores can survive a buyout

Steve Morris shares how he endured multiple buyouts over his many years in the convenience business

Beverages

The Beverage Business Is About to Get More Competitive

A growing number of restaurant chains are expanding in the U.S. with a wider array of more innovative beverages than ever. And now McDonald's and Taco Bell are coming. Is there enough demand?

Trending

More from our partners