Tips for Growing Your Professional Network

The following post offers Tips for Growing Your Professional Network.

Building your professional network is one of the most important things you can do for your long-term career success. At some point in your career – possibly multiple points – you’re going to need people you can turn to.

Read: Understanding the Hidden Job Market

Related: Considerations When Evaluating Multiple Job Offers

There are lots of ways to go about building your professional network. No matter how you decide, the key to success is cultivating mutually-beneficial relationships with people you like, trust, and respect.

Here’s what you need to know.

Overview

First of all, what is a professional network? Basically, it’s anyone you’ve built a relationship with in your career. Current and former bosses, colleagues, clients, and vendors are all members of your professional network.

One of the key things to understand about your professional network is that it must be cultivated. It doesn’t just happen. It’s your job to build these connections in a meaningful way.

Part of your responsibility is to maintain and/or strengthen relationships over time. The more effort you put into nurturing your network, the more value it provides when opportunities arise.

Pictured: Google’s definition of a professional network.

Use LinkedIn

LinkedIn is like the digital version of your professional Rolodex. It’s the place where you can connect with people who actually care about your career. Joining groups on LinkedIn and engaging in discussion is just one of many ways to build your professional network.

It’s a good habit to send invitations to connect with people on LinkedIn. Even if it’s just adding coworkers, clients, or industry peers. It might seem small, but those 1st-degree connections can make a big difference.

Go Socialize

Going out and having fun is a great strategy for growing your professional network. Gatherings hosted by family and friends may lead to unexpected connections. Strike up a conversation, keep an open mind, and pounce on the chance to connect with interesting people when the opportunity presents itself.

Be a Volunteer

Volunteering is a surefire way to meet new people in a low-pressure environment. Getting started is easy. Just run a search for volunteer opportunities in your area or a local food bank (they’re always looking for help). Also, consider joining an organization such as Kiwanis, Rotary, or your local Chamber of Commerce.

Produce Content

Publish and share content (blog, vlog, podcast) on social media. Demonstrating your thought leadership will attract like-minded professionals to consume your content, and things can snowball from there.

Attend a Conference

Going to events and conferences in your industry or city is a strategic way to meet like-minded professionals. Most professional associations and organizations host in-person events every year.

In Conclusion

I hope this article helps you understand your professional network, why it’s important, and how you can start. Building your professional network takes years (not months). The earlier you can begin to make it a habit, the better your network will be when you need it most.