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  • March 6, 2020
  • Article
  • Harvard Business Review Digital Articles

Networking Doesn't Have to Be Self-Serving

By: Rosabeth Moss Kanter
  • Format:Electronic
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Abstract

How can individual leaders help to tackle big social problems? It can seem like an overwhelming, impossible task. But successful change agents have shown that networking and communication skills are key. They show up, in person, to investigate the issues and build relationships on the ground. They knock on many doors to build a diverse coalition. They offer help before they ask for it. They approach everyone with a learning mindset. They plant seeds with and pre-sell ideas to disparate groups, then bring them together. And, finally, they demonstrate progress and deliver on goals.

Keywords

Network; Self-serving; Social Issues; Networks; Communication; Leading Change

Citation

Kanter, Rosabeth Moss. "Networking Doesn't Have to Be Self-Serving." Harvard Business Review Digital Articles (March 6, 2020).
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About The Author

Rosabeth M. Kanter

General Management
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More from the Author
  • The Miccosukee Tribe and the Battle to Save the Everglades (B): The Art of Coalition Building By: Rosabeth Moss Kanter and Jacob A. Small
  • The Miccosukee Tribe and the Battle to Save the Everglades (B): The Art of Coalition Building By: Rosabeth Moss Kanter and Jacob A. Small
  • Bridj and the Business of Urban Mobility (B): A New Model in Kansas City By: Rosabeth Moss Kanter and Jonathan Cohen
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