WTM 2022: Lee Haslett on the career-boosting benefits of networking
Katherine MastersUnderstanding the power of networking was a top tip from Lee Haslett, vice-president of global sales, Virgin Atlantic.
During an episode of the In the Know travel podcast, recorded at WTM London, on Monday Haslett urged delegates to look outside of their inner circle for networking opportunities.
“When I was younger, it was all about what I could get out of networking,” he explained. “Remember the impact you have on people. There is power in networking. Bring people with you as you climb, but understand that people climb at different paces.”
Haslett admitted he was a natural introvert who struggled with networking, and he offered this advice for fellow introverts: “My idea of hell is entering a roomful of people on my own to network. So I set myself a challenge – meet 10 new people, then I feel like I’ve achieved something and can naturally transit to more familiar faces.”
He also talked about his career trajectory on the podcast, and how he started out selling kitchens in Homebase, by accident. When he was first hired by the company, he filled in for a colleague who didn’t show up for a training course dedicated to selling Homebase’s new fitted kitchens.
“Eighteen months later I was the number one kitchen sales person [at Homebase] in the country. I owe everything to that guy who didn’t show up for his place on the course.”
He also spoke about Virgin Atlantic’s inclusivity drive. “We believe in action in this space. Everybody should be able to come to work as a true version of themselves – to deliver their best work. Our customers don’t cover up their tattoos on board so why should our employees?”
And he teased new routes, to be announced 17/18 November. “They’re spectacular,” he promised. “I’m meeting some of the destinations here, so don’t follow me around trying to find out where,” he joked.
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Katherine Masters
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