A very big part of how I got to where I am in my career has been because of the relationships that I formed in my varsity years, and the people I’ve met along my journey as I made my way into the industry. I got my first ever internship in 2019 through a mentorship program that I heard about from a lady that I met at an event, chatted to, and basically forced to be my mentor, but because she didn’t have capacity, she told me about the program where I met my now mentor. Moral of the story, I got here by simply starting conversations, as intimidated as I was. 

In today’s dynamic work environment, having a wide professional network is an important part of one’s career growth. Networking not only opens doors to new opportunities but also provides a support system that can help you navigate your career path more effectively. I've seen it first hand.  So if you are still struggling to build those professional connections, this blog is definitely for you.

Tips for building your professional network

1. Attend Industry Events: Conferences, seminars, workshops, and networking events are excellent places to meet like-minded professionals. Make it a habit to attend these regularly.

2. A simple hello goes a long way: If you ever find yourself near someone who you admire and look up to, or whose story inspires you, greet them and let them know that they inspire you and mention how their journey has inspired you. 

3. Leverage Social Media: Platforms like LinkedIn, and Instagram are powerful tools for professional networking. Connect with colleagues, join industry groups, and participate in discussions to expand your network. Follow the people who interest you, and engage with their content, if you can, attend events where they speak or host. 

4. Volunteer: Offer your skills and time to industry-related causes or events. Volunteering not only helps you give back but also allows you to meet new people and showcase your expertise.

5. Be Intentional: It’s one thing to admire a person from afar, and to know who they are, but when it comes to building a network, you need to be intentional about why that person is the right person to have in your network, understand their journey and how they can, based on this, assist you and support you on your growth journey.

So now you’ve built the relationship, you and this person are now connected, then what? Let’s explore some tips for managing your professional network

1. Keep in Touch: Regularly check in with your contacts through emails, messages, or calls. Share updates about your career and take an interest in their professional journeys.

2. Provide Value: Networking is a two-way street. Offer your assistance, share useful information, and support your contacts when they need it.

3. Be Genuine: Build authentic relationships based on mutual respect and interest. People are more likely to remember and support those who are sincere and genuine.

4. Follow Up: After meeting someone new, follow up with a personalized message or email. Mention something specific from your conversation to help them remember you, and let them know what you gained from it and why you would like to keep connecting with them.

Building and managing a professional network is a continuous process that requires time, effort, and genuine interest. A strong network can be a powerful asset, providing career opportunities, support, and valuable insights. By actively engaging in networking activities and maintaining meaningful relationships, you can unlock new possibilities and achieve greater success in your career. I mean, I have a ‘testimony’ of how I fostered relationships and landed with two mentors, no wait three, and have a story about my first internship, first and current job and how I got all these opportunities through networking. I know, I also hate the word networking, but I definitely believe in what it can help one achieve. Remember, the strength of your network is not just in the number of contacts, but in the quality of the relationships you build.