Networking Policy and Procedure

Policies and procedures provide employees with a clear understanding of what is expected of them.

Let's start by describing the differences between a policy and a procedure.

• Policies: Policies set some parameters for decision-making but leave room for flexibility. They explain the 'why' behind an action.
• Procedures: Procedures explain the 'how' behind an action. They usually provide step-by-step instructions for specific tasks and may include a checklist or process flowchart as a visual prompt.

Networking policy and procedure

Organisational policies and procedures outline the protocols you should follow when contacting a person or another organisation. Before participating in any events or contacting specific individuals, refer to the relevant policies and procedures your organisation has to check if you have permission to do so. Some policies may also establish a specific process that you must follow when contacting people outside the organisation.

If your organisation has a policy specifically for networking, examples of what it may include are:

• the types of events that can be attended.
• confidential information and trade secrets which must not be shared.
• who can be contacted and for what purpose?
• general guidelines for how you must conduct yourself.

Related policies and procedures and legislation

Most policies and procedures include a list of relevant policies and procedures, Acts, and legislation at the end of a policy and procedure. Why is this? The purpose of the legislation is to set out the law in Australia. By creating workplace-specific policies and procedures, an organisation can help to fulfil their obligations and responsibilities as an employer under certain legislation such as work health and safety and discrimination legislation. Laws can also be used to enforce the actions stipulated in a policy³.

The following table lists policies and procedures and legislation related to networking.

Networking and social media policy and procedure

Social media is a common communication channel used in networking and uses online platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter (now X) to build networks or social relationships with other people who share similar personal or career interests, activities, backgrounds or real-life connections. Not being savvy with social media may represent lost networking opportunities and a barrier to increasing your contacts.

Many organisations have a policy and procedure that outlines how social networking should be used by employees. For example, the Otago University’s social media policy is provided to staff. The purpose of the policy is to examine those areas where an employee’s personal use of social media may intersect with their professional life and provide information and direction on managing any risks that may arise.

Organisational policies and procedures such as these will help you determine (in consultation with your manager) networking opportunities to establish business relationships and contribute to the organisation's objectives. Be mindful of any such documents before attending any networking events. There may be serious ramifications for inappropriate behaviour, communications, or comments. In particular, companies often have strict guidelines in place covering interactions on social media.

For small business owners who are mainly responsible for their own business relationship networking it is advisable to construct a basic code of conduct, even if it is only yourself who it applies to.

Scenario

Ace Finance has identified networking as a key strategy for establishing and maintaining business relationships. It is also identified as a key element in their current Corporate Marketing Plan to help achieve its objective to increase members from key agricultural sectors in regional areas. Robert, the owner of Ace Finance is committed to networking and wants to see more staff engage in networking (whether virtual or physical).

When new staff are appointed they review two policies and procedures related to networking: the Networking Policy and Procedure and the Technology, Collaboration and Communication Policy and Procedure.

The Technology, Collaboration and Communication Policy and Procedure includes the following directives related to communication:

• Be respectful when engaging in conversations on behalf of Ace Finance:
• Do not make declarations or promises that you cannot keep.
• Avoid speaking on matters, making statements, or answering questions that fall outside your field of expertise or under another employee's responsibility.
• Do not disclose confidential or personal information without written approval.

Read through the Ace Finance Networking Policy and Procedure and familiarise yourself with the contents. Look at the section titled 'Seeking specialist advice' Can you identify at least two appropriate networking opportunities?

You’ve come to the end of this topic, well done! Before moving on to the next section be sure to complete all the exercises and go back over any linked videos and articles if you need to.