RBS London Networking Events
RBS London is delighted to have two successfully events in
co-operation with the Chartered Management Institute
(CMI). Both events provided excellent chances for RBS London
alumni, students, staff and students from other Schools on the
campus to network with professionals from a diversity of
organisations.
It is a fact that we all like to do business with people we
know, like and trust. Having the ability to engage and build a
large personal network will bring immense business benefits. This
is also the main focus of our first event – Networking: a social
nicety or a valuable business skill byJane Mann, December 2007. The
session was fun, fully participated and engaged by all.
We have certainly all picked up a few tips and hints from the
evening. Networking is a long term strategy, where contacts should
be developed and maintained continuously. ‘It’s not about you, it’s
about what you can do for them’ – Jane Mann. There are many things
you can offer people, information, expertise and experience. When
you have no real interest in others’ needs, it is hard to result in
productive collaboration.
Perhaps the most important thing to take away from the evening
is what not to do! People will remember more about how others make
them feel rather than what they’ve said. Thus, try not to talk
non-stop about yourself but focus on how to engage with others.
Selective networking is fine, but only connecting with people who
are seen as ‘valuable’ and pushing yourselves upon them is another
thing. Don’t expect too much too soon, networking is about
developing long lasting relationships.
The evening ended with a networking session at which canapés and
refreshments were served. All guests enjoyed the process and
practice does make it easier.
‘This was by far the best networking event I have
attended. The atmosphere was relaxed and informal, the speaker was
well chosen for her expertise and the tone was very positive. I
found the pace of the event upbeat and the activities were very
appropriate. Contrary to my preconceptions about these events, I
really enjoyed myself and would definitely recommend it to other
alumni.’
Manpreet Grewal – BA (Hons)
International Business (2001)
On the evening of February 2008, RBS London played host to the
President’s Dinner in the honour of Baroness Perry. It was
well-attended by our alumni, postgraduate students, staff and also
the CMI members.
The event was addressed by Mae Keary (Chair of CMI 2006 - 2008),
who outlined the role and activities of the CMI to the audience.
This was followed by an introduction from the Baroness Perry and
then a spirited talk by Profession Alex Linley, Director of Centre of Applied Positive Psychology
on Strengthening the Organisation.
Two organisational case studies were used to illustrate
‘harnessing strengths is the smallest thing to make the biggest
difference’. Alex demonstrated how Norwich Union utilised a
strengths-based recruitment to encourage employee engagement and
the optimal individual performance that drives outstanding
organisational performance, as well as explained BAE Systems with
its changing business context and leadership development. Alex also
covered the Strengths Project - a charity venture helping
underprivileged individuals and groups indentify, develop, and use
strengths to enhance quality of life and improve their life
circumstances. The talk was well-received by the audience and
resulted in a dynamic Q & A session.
The CEO of Regent’s College, Aldwyn Cooper, brought the formal
proceedings to an end by explaining the stage of development that
Regent’s College has reached in its strategy to achieve taught
degree-awarding powers.
‘The dinner was an engaging event. The two of us who
attended were impressed by the speaker, who humoured and kept the
audience's attention well throughout, offering sound advice and
case studies.
Stephanie Sturkner & James Kaye – MA Global
Management (students)
Special thanks to Mae Keary, Jane Mann from Maple Consultancy
and Alex Linley from CAPP - “Average to A+ Realising Strengths
in Yourself and Others”.