Energy Workforce’s Leadership Forum featuring Advisory Board Member Melissa Cougle, CFO at Ranger Energy Services, focused on “Networking: The Purpose and Importance of Creating Connections.” Throughout the forum, Melissa shared insights with attendees on how networking has impacted her career.
Melissa dove deep into the ins and outs of networking. From sharing networking strategies to explaining how networking relationships should benefit both parties, she unlocked valuable insights for attendees, shedding new light on making connections.
One key insight Melissa shared with attendees was, “Networking is not about the number of LinkedIn connections you have. It’s about making impactful impressions and getting to know someone.” She mentioned how being authentic and shifting your mindset to “how can I help others” goes a long way when networking, and those strategies foster strong relationships.
Aside from focusing on strategies that have helped Melissa create meaningful connections, she emphasized the need for human connection, relating it to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs to stress how important connecting with others is for us mentally.
Melissa explained that growing meaningful relationships through networking builds confidence, attracts respect from others, and helps us find a bigger purpose in our careers.
“One thing I have found myself referring to frequently throughout my life is Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs; I’ve found that it connects to many areas of my life, including networking.”
— Advisory Board Member Melissa Cougle, CFO, Ranger Energy Services
She also shared the importance of finding your own networking strategies. Melissa noted how some may prefer to network at happy hours, while others, like herself, prefer a smaller, intimate setting, such as a luncheon.
Before opening the discussion for a Q&A with participants, Melissa wrapped up the forum by sharing stories about “Work Networking Examples” and “Personal Networking Opportunities,” highlighting people who have made an impact in her life and how they’ve done so.
Thank you to Emerging Executives committee member Orleth Bryan-Tortolero for facilitating the session.
Britney Turcios, Marketing Specialist, writes about the Energy Workforce & Technology Council. Click here to subscribe to the Energy Workforce newsletter, which highlights sector-specific issues, best practices, activities and more.
