Question: What are your thoughts on the networking concept of “Pay It Forward”?
My answer: This is the networking mantra which is drilled into our heads by every list of “things you need to know to be an effective networker” etc. For me, paying it forward is about consideration and responsiveness. It is realizing when to make the ask and when to say no to an ask. It is about giving thought to the other person: their communication style and preferences, as well as priorities and interests. A big “pay it forward” for me is mentoring. I got where I am professionally because of the guidance and help from others. If someone isn’t prepared to pay it forward by recognizing no-one goes it alone and reaching back to lift others up, they are not welcome in my inner network.
