Quantum² Resources : Marketing & Management Tools : 5 Tips For Getting Started

5 Tips For Getting Started

When everyone understands how you can help them in their jobs, amazing things begin to happen. You have access to information that sets off a powerful chain reaction...information that can change minds...even change lives. Here are some ideas to start using right away — the kind of ideas you'll have access to all the time as a Quantum² member.

1. Be a connector.

People come and go. As your company's information guru, you can help prevent new people from reinventing the wheel. Encourage cross-connection: guide people to the colleagues and resources they need to get the job done most efficiently.

2. Get out of the box.

Look outside the info center — and your traditional role — to gain a true understanding of the work your company does. This way, you'll be better able to see the business relevance in the information you provide.

3. Pat yourself on the back.

Ask clients to remember to credit the library if you help produce a good result. Publish and distribute success stories you've helped achieve.

4. Keep an open mind.

One of our members says her department operates on the theory that librarians can do anything. For example, they took over the task of circulating laptop computers when the systems department wanted out of that business. And they've gotten into other unusual service offerings, such as software beta-testing.

5. Start spreading the news.

Post a catalog of info resources as well as other company resources on your company's intranet. Promote your info center at in-house training seminars. Conduct in-house promotions during National Library Week. Work with HR to send an information package to new hires. Produce an electronic newsletter or monthly e-mail blast.