Did you know that 80% of career opportunities come from your network?
It’s true! People who are promoted, given the best projects, or land a choice role after a reorg are not only great at their job; they also have a strong network of people who advocate for them and inform them of opportunities.
But networking isn’t all about finding new opportunities for YOU. It’s also about finding new opportunities for others.
REMEMBER: The strongest networks are mutually beneficial.
If you approach networking with a “me first” attitude, you won’t build lasting relationships (and frankly, you won’t have as much fun).
So while you’re networking, keep these tips in mind:
Give long before you get. The best time to network is long before you need anything. Approach all your relationships from a place of generosity, and you’ll find that people are often willing to reciprocate at a later date. If you’re not sure what you have to offer, do some soul searching and talk it over with a friend. I guarantee you have a skill set or connection that your network doesn’t have. Line up your pieces now so that when you have true need of your network, they are willing and ready to assist you.
Look for mutually beneficial outcomes. How can you turn a networking relationship into a partnership? Always be on the lookout for potential opportunities to team up.
If/when you need something: be clear. Nothing is weirder than a vague request for help. If you reach out to someone with a request, take the extra time to clarify it in your head before writing that email or picking up the phone.
Network strategically around your goals. What is your current goal? Are you looking to hone a skill? Pivot careers? Are you curious and want to learn more about another department or role? If so, just be clear about that so the person you are meeting with can quickly find ways to help you achieve your goal. You will find people who want to help you; helping you makes them feel good.
Give to your squad, and they’ll give back to you. It’s a win-win!
Do you have a successful networking story? What strategies that work best for you? As always, feel free to weigh in — I love to hear from you!
Xo,
Alli
P. S. We are offering free workshops to women’s groups as a way to promote our new Forem platform. If you are part of a women’s group or have access to one, give a sister a hand, and invite us on in! Just reply and we’ll be in touch. And thank you!
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