Trades Classifications

I grew up around the trades industry. Plumbers, Electricians, Roughnecks, Deck hands, Drillers and union laborers were classified in 1 of 4 skill sets:

1. Novice – Interested in learning the trade but brand new.
2. Apprentice – Entry level commitment to a course of study with on the job experience
3. Journeyman – A trained craftsman who had completed a long term course of study and passed his exam.
4. Master – The Expert in his field after he had completed the final expert course study, passed a rigorous exam and proven his skill-set.

Many professionals are well trained by their company in product knowledge.  I have several clients who are constantly in training for new products, government regulations and ongoing updates.   After just a couple of years in the field, they may even have a strong working knowledge of the services they offer; some may consider themselves a specialist in a few areas.  Financial Advisers have various licensing levels.  Realtors have designations.  A CPA has a higher level of training than a bookkeeper.  How does your company classify your professional skill level?

Networking Proficiency

It takes time and training to become a skilled relationship building networker.  Learning the ropes as well as the lay of the landscape take concerted, educated effort.  Getting your followup and follow-through down requires trial and error.  Use my NICHE Assessment to help you recognize your networking skill level, separate and apart from your professional  proficiency.

• 8-9 = Master
• 6-7 = Journeyman
• 4-5 = Apprentice
• 3 = Novice

Show me the money

Each level of training gave those union workers a guaranteed start salary in their occupation…with bonuses and raises accordingly. If you were a Journeyman Electrician, you started that pay scale.

As independent agents or entrepreneurs, the unofficial truth remains the same. The better you are at networking, connecting with referral partners and your target market, the more business you close and the more money your team makes.

Networking Certification

I am a Certified Networking Professional.  I completed a course of study and I bear the marks and benefits of that training.

Growth Dynamic offers two NICHE  Networking Certifications:

1. NICHE Notable Networker
2. NICHE Referral Master

Add one of those to your professional proficiency and see what it does to your pay-scale!

Scott Carley

Consultant