Presidents Blog: October 2013

Hello SCWIST!

Fall has arrived, meaning our schedules are now packed with everything from work, new projects, school, and events.

Summer was spent outside, relaxing with friends or enjoying a book on the beach. But fall is where life kicks into high gear, and for me, this season is all about networking! While there is no shortage of things to do and people to meet in my daily life and work life, I always make sure to set aside time in the fall for networking.

Why is networking something I’m so passionate about? Since joining SCWIST over four years ago I’ve made many connections and friendships that have enriched my professional and daily life- I wouldn’t be the person I am today without them and SCWIST. And working for the industry association, Life Sciences BC, I find myself using this skill everyday. It’s also allowed me to help others connect in their careers and socially.

Because so many things in our life are dependent on this one skill (professional & personal development, job hunting, knowledge transfer, and information gathering just for starters), it’s something we at SCWIST feel strongly about, and year after year it’s a skill we aim to help our members develop!

All this networking can be intimidating and exhausting, but it’s one of the most important skills we need throughout our careers — no matter what level we are at in a company or type of job we choose.

But if you’re still not convinced, and the thought of networking ranks about as high on your list of fun things to do as cleaning the gutters, check out the Shepa Learning Company, a Vancouver group that helps people become better connectors. These folks are experts at networking and have great advice on how to make lasting connections.

I’d also like to take this opportunity to give a little plug for a great connecting website:www.skillsmatching.com. If you’re looking for work or to hire someone, SkillsMatching.com will help you connect to the right people.

When you join any organization, including SCWIST, it’s a big step and is already the beginning of your networking journey. So, I hope to meet you at an event sometime soon so we can make a new connection and share some ideas.

Oh, and remember that really big news I mentioned last month? Well, it’s going to happen very soon! Stay-tuned for an announcement. You won’t believe what’s in store!
See you soon!

Rosine Hage-Moussa
President of SCWIST 2013-14