Navigating Change? How Networking Can Help You Thrive During Transitions
"Know where you want to go and make sure the right people know about it." -- Meredith Mahoney
A lot might come up when you think about “networking”.
Maybe it’s the dreaded small talk and inevitable, obligatory questions:
“So, what do you do for work?”
The social awkwardness, navigating first impressions, and initial judgments.
Or simply the vulnerability that comes along with approaching and meeting strangers and sharing about yourself!
On the flip, maybe you’re a total pro and networking “ain’t no thang” for you.
Wherever you find yourself amidst the range of emotions when it comes to networking, it’s just the truth that it’s an essential aspect of any career growth, career transition, or just life transition, too.
Whether you’re:
starting a new job
on the brink of a new chapter
looking to pivot and switch careers,
share about a new business or side project
Or you’re just curious about what’s out there and want to explore new opportunities.
Building strong professional and personal relationships can open doors and oftentimes, lead you to new opportunities, too.
Especially for high-achievers and movers and shakers, who are juggling many responsibilities and facing unique challenges in the workplace, having a quality support system around you pays its weight in gold.
Some things to consider if you’re figuring out how to prioritize networking amongst the many other things on your plate.
Networking Allows You to Build Relationships with People in Your Industry + Field
Relationships specific to your line of work can help provide valuable insights into skill development, advancement in your industry, resource-share, or help you stay up-to-date on trends and developments. Having someone in your corner who does similar work can also offer you unique perspectives, support, and guidance as you navigate the ups and downs of your chosen field.
2. Networking Allows You to Expand Your Professional Network
Consistently building and seeking out new connections can lead you to a more aligned role, a new opportunity, or a partnership or collaboration.
By putting the time in to build a strong network of contacts, you only increase your visibility and reputation in your industry which could allow you to be more likely to be considered for new opportunities or referrals.
3. Networking Can Help You Build Confidence
Networking by its nature will require you to improve your communication and interpersonal skills. It will invite you to reflect on how you want to present yourself to the world and what it is you really have to offer.
By practicing meeting new people and putting yourself out there, you’ll naturally become more comfortable in social situations and articulating your professional goals, aspirations, and interests.
Chances are, you have incredible stories and expertise that others will benefit from learning about.
So, what are some practical ways to network and build a supportive community around you? Especially when going through a big life transition?
4. Start with Your Existing Network
Before jumping into the deep end of reaching out to totally new contacts, start by taking stock of your existing network. Leverage the relationships you’ve already built and the people who already know how amazing you are.
This could include current colleagues, former classmates or work friends, friends, or family members or friends of family.
Let them know you’re looking to expand your contacts and ask if they think there’s anyone you should meet. Chances are, they’ll have a recommendation or introduction they could make.
5. Research and Attend Industry Events
Attending industry specific events is a great way to meet new people and stay-up-to-date on what’s going on in your specific field. Look for events that align with your professional interests and goals.
Think Women in Digital Marketing, Women in Law, Women in Tech, Women Entrepreneurs.
Find out when their regular events are (online or in-person), join their newsletter, or reach out to the host or organizer of the event or group.
Make an effort to attend regularly and engage in conversations with other attendees.
6. Join Professional Associations
Similar to industry specific events, many industries have their own associations and professional groups. Think: The National Association for Accountants and the like.
Look for professional groups that align with your specific industry but also your interests and goals.
Consider joining as a member to provide you access to regular events, industry publications, or other valuable resources like mentoring or office hours.
7. Participate in Online Communities
A beautiful by-product of the pandemic was how many virtual communities and online events were created.
Slack groups, LinkedIn groups, or other virtual organizations and communities can provide an extremely accessible way to meet new people and build consistent connections.
Again, look for groups that align with your specific interests and goals, and have events that are compelling and valuable enough to feel like sitting on another Zoom call after hours is worth your time.
But by participating regularly and sharing your thoughts, resources, and unique experiences through engaging in conversations with other members, online communities can be a great way to meet people all around the world you may not have access to otherwise.
8. Reach Out to Alumni
If you attended college or graduate school, reach out to alumni in your field.
A LinkedIn search will show you all the people you attended the same school as and many schools have very active alumni networks or directories that can provide you with a way to connect with other professionals in your industry.
Having this shared experience in common removes one less barrier to making a meaningful connection, too.
Consider reaching out to alumni for informational interviews or to simply introduce yourself and build a connection.
9. Offer to Help Others
Networking is a two-way street, and offering to help others can be a great way to build relationships and establish yourself as a valuable contact.
Consider offering to introduce colleagues or people you think would get along or who would have mutually beneficial skills or expertise.
Or offering to contribute your unique skills and talents with a project or task and you might be surprised at how the favor can be repaid down the line.
By being helpful and supportive, you'll build a strong reputation and strong relationships that can lead to new opportunities down the road.
10. Follow Up
Finally, be sure to thoughtfully follow up with new contacts after you meet them.
Send a quick email or LinkedIn message to thank them for their time and express your interest in staying connected.
Be sure to keep your contacts organized and make an effort to stay in touch regularly by sharing updates, insights, or something that would be valuable like a new resource you discover.
Networking is an essential part of any career or life transition but most importantly, have fun and enjoy the journey, you just never know who you’ll meet along the way.
One connection could change the complete trajectory of your life.