This month in our Transition Toolkit, we have a guest feature, focusing on Networking. The piece comes from John Heaver, an ex- Royal Marines officer who now leads up Barclays Business Banks Fraud Oversight operations.
“Networking is a key skill that the Military leaver must master – think of it as a drill.
The first step is to take stock of and build upon your pre-existing network (family, muckers, school friends and military connections). Don’t be afraid to ask for help and take time to sit down and establish what network you already have – I bet it will be powerful and far-reaching than you initially think.
As you start expanding lay the boundaries out with this network, immediately this will snowball and allow you to expand your network. Just demonstrating your intent will vastly increase the opportunity that you are perhaps looking for.
Some top tips: Don’t be afraid of LinkedIn – get used to it it’s a tool designed to help you succeed however don’t then shy away from the old-fashioned and powerful face to face meetings. It might feel awkward at first but get used to Networking. It’s a marathon, not a sprint; be genuine and show up with curiosity.”
John Heaver, Barclays Business Bank – Fraud Oversight Lead. Ex RM Officer