Networking for career success – making it work for you

I’ve been reflecting on networking a lot over the last 18 months, and it’s been coming up in my coaching conversations too.

When I was fresh into my career, the concept of networking scared me. It didn’t sound like it would come naturally to me, and images of awkward conversations or schmoozy encounters would fill my mind. Fast forward ten years, and it was still something I didn’t think fondly of, deciding that I didn’t have time for it due to other responsibilities. Many people I speak with feel the same.

But I’ve come to realise a couple of things lately. Firstly – we’re networking all the time by simply spending time with people (including working alongside them), and secondly – networking at its core is about building relationships, which is something most of us are pretty good at!

There are many benefits associated with having a broad network, beyond being able to support each other. The more people that we have conversations with the more we learn, the more opportunities we open up, and the more we broaden our mindset with new ideas and information. Plus, what Covid taught a lot of us is that networking and connecting with others is crucial to our wellbeing.

So, below I’ve set out my top eight tips to help you network genuinely and with purpose.

1. Building a networking plan

Be deliberate about the network you’d like to build. Consider the outcomes you’re looking for, whether it’s to learn new things or gain access to career opportunities, and think about the topics or industries you’re wanting to engage with. Then do your research to produce a list of people you’d like to meet, and a list of those that you already know and could build deeper connections with.

2. Start with people you know

When reaching out to new people it’s always best to go through a connection if possible (I’ve never found cold calling very effective).  Connections could be current or prior work colleagues who know you well or people outside of work such as friends, family, or people you’ve studied with. Ask them to introduce you to the person you’d like to meet to soften your approach and start the relationship on common ground.

3. Get to know their background

Do your research on the person you’re meeting BEFORE you meet up with them. For example, do you have similar interests or hobbies, have you both worked in the same industry, or lived in the same place? Asking around or looking online will usually provide you with rich information, making it easier to build a genuine connection.

4. Explain why you want to meet

Many people don’t have time to accept every ‘coffee’ invitation that comes their way. Be clear on why you’d like to meet that person and let them know. This could be anything from speaking about some of the great work they’ve done or getting their help to challenge your thinking on a certain area.  This helps the other person make choices about their time and what they may need to do to prepare.

5. Plan to fit your schedule

Be clear about what works for your schedule and manage your diary to make it happen. For example, if you can’t connect before or after work due to other commitments, how about catching up over lunch? And remember, ask the person you’re meeting with what works best for them too.

6. Network in groups

Meeting several new people at a time is a highly effectively way to expand your network. Look for professional groups that meet up in your area of interest, and leverage events that are already in your diary. To make the most of them, allow time before or after training courses to chat with other attendees.

7. Give before you receive

The adage “it is better to give than to receive” helps to build powerful networks. Always consider what you can share with someone before you ask of them in return. It could be a great article or tool that might be relevant to them, giving your time to help them bounce ideas around, or providing connections to people from your networks.

8. Stay connected

Building strong relationships takes time. Networks are no different. Find other ways to stay in touch as most of us don’t have time for a coffee every 6 months. A supportive comment on a work social media post, or a quick email to share something you’ve seen that may be valuable to them, goes a long way.

This information is provided with the sole intention of providing general information only.  We make no warranty nor assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness or use of any information on this article.  The content of this article should not be used as a substitute for professional advice.  You agree to use this article at your own risk.