I have been fortunate in that I have never had to go out and seek new career opportunities. Because of my network, I have had many people approach me when they became aware of positions that they thought would be a fit for me. It helps when I know them well; and they know what skills I bring.

2) How did you discover the power of building authentic connections? 

I honestly like to find out about the people that I meet, what their interests are, what are their passions, what's their background both personally and professionally. If you read The Tipping Point, there are people who are true "connectors" and I am one of them. It's very powerful to have a variety of connections, but you generally have to like, and have a sincere interest in, the people that come into your life.

3) How do you maintain and nurture your relationships? 

I am the "go to" person for up-to-date contact information on people that I went to high school and college with, worked with throughout my career or have volunteered or done business with. I keep in touch and periodically schedule "catch up time" both locally and when I travel. It's exciting to find out what's going on with others in their lives, especially with others in my network where it's a "win-win" relationship.

4) What advice do you have for women who are thinking about starting a business?

In a couple of ways: 1) there are often positions that come up on not-for-profit boards that I serve on. I often pinpoint a few people in my network, who may be a fit. 2) I often reach out to my network for fundraising - whether it's to attend an event or gala, make a financial or in-kind donation or may be advocate for the cause.  It's been very rewarding.

5) What advice do you have for others on how to become a connector? 

Along the way, you will meet people who only want something from you; it's a one-way street. These are the type of people that you will hear from only when they need something.  My advice is to find out early in the relationship what type of connection it is, and treat the relationship accordingly. The second piece of advice is that you have to make the effort - if you commit to someone to do something, you need to follow through.  Lastly, don't wait for the other person to connect with you. Email them, send them a message on LinkedIn or call them. You may be the one who keeps in touch, but if it creates strong, lasting and meaningful relationships, it's worth it!

Nanci Schimizzi is Vice President for Technology Administration at the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA.)  She has held various management positions both in business roles and the technology organization with a focus on program management, communication and strategy. Nanci is Past President for the Board of Directors of Women in Technology and for the Angels Network. She is also a member of the Advisory Council for the American University Information Technology Executive Committee (ITEC).