“Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much."
– Helen Keller
If you’re starting from scratch, the idea of establishing and growing a professional network may seem overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be. Look around. You almost certainly are not starting from scratch. Your immediate network of friends, colleagues, and even family are a great starting point. Access their network. Meet the people they know and find the strategic opportunities. Keep expanding and you’ll find common interests, overlaps, and natural partnerships.
It’s time to build your network and make connections for professional success – the right connection really can change your life!
Where to find new connections
At work:
Colleagues are a great additional to your network as they can vouch for you and make recommendations based on your experience and achievements. A referral is a powerful tool when trying to expand your business or grow your career. These people are already familiar with your strengths, passions, and goals.
Alumni events:
The people you went to school with can be well connected and often share similar interests as you. Most alumni associations offer an opportunity for you to connect with other graduates. The benefit of your school experience – university or otherwise – extends well beyond a diploma. Tap into your alumni association and look for people who could be a valuable asset to your network.
Community:
You neighbors, location organizations, church or charity groups — you have something in common with all these people. They probably are, or can connect you with, the people to extend your network effectively. Get involved locally – this is really important for small business owners. Showcase your business by hosting local events, sponsoring local sports teams, and by showing up and making a difference in your community.
Professional Groups:
Depending on your profession and/or industry, there may be professional groups that hold regular events. They are easier to find than you may realize. The local chamber of commerce may have a list. National groups abound as well: SAG for screen actors, AARP for those that are retired, NABA for black accountants, and so on. The International Association of Women (IAW) offers a network of women that is available virtually and in person to support, motivate and inspire.
Online:
In today’s digital landscape, finding likeminded people and strategic partners couldn’t be easier. Nearly the entire planet is connected in a way never seen before. No more excuses. IAW was built to connect professional women, hosting thousands of virtual events!
Social Media:
The connections you make on social media channels can be powerful. Just think how social networks like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook have changed our world. YouTube and countless newer networks are shaping the future too. Using these tools for network building, community outreach, and mentor/mentee relationships is sometimes easier than finding customers. Facebook and LinkedIn groups provide opportunity for conversation with like-minded people.
Family:
Family members tend to be more involved in your personal network, but there is no reason family can’t also help you professionally. Family members can often help by making new introductions and providing insights about opportunities. They too have scholastic and professional networks they’ve been building their whole lives. How often have you met your kids’ friends’ parents? Consider exploring their network.
Overcoming Challenges
Networking can present a few challenges for those who are not technically proficient or those who consider themselves introverted.
Technical challenges:
If you struggle to connect because you can’t figure out how to setup a LinkedIn profile or can’t manage the registration details of an event, a little education can go a very long way. Look for helpful resources on YouTube or elsewhere to help guide you with visual demonstration. Fear of new technology, new media, new ways of doing things is something to quickly and efficiently overcome. Not knowing how to do something is absolutely no excuse in the 21st Century. Need general reassurance or specific advice? Reach out to the IAW network at a local event and ask for some assistance from somebody that is more tech savvy.
Networking fears:
If professional networking seems like a scary prospect, you’re not alone. The axiom “It’s who you know not what you know” continues to be generally true. Your professional network carries great power in helping you get ahead. But this isn’t a reason to hold back. If anything it’s a reason to push forward. Seek new connections, put yourself and your intentions out there.
Not taking action because you feel scared or intimidated isn’t going to help your career at all. It’s time to take action and overcome the fear of professional networking. If you are a natural introvert, developing a networking strategy can go a long way in helping you be successful.
When trying to grow your network, remember that it takes time and patience to establish the right connections and that over time your network grow and provide opportunity for you.