We’ve all heard the saying: “It’s not what you know, but who you know.” And while nothing will beat experience and talent, making connections can have a powerful impact on your career, both now and in the future.
But forming those connections is easier said than done, especially if you’re at the beginning stages of your career or stepping into a new field. Here are our top tips for forming, maintaining, and utilizing your professional network to support your career success.
Start Small
Your network won’t be built in a day – and that’s okay. Start by going through LinkedIn or your contacts list and identifying some key individuals who might be able to offer you mentorship or further connections. This may mean spending a set amount of time on LinkedIn per week reviewing profiles and sending messages, or perhaps you’d rather reach out via a phone call. By talking to one or two people at a time, you can break networking down so that it’s much more manageable, and also set up genuine conversations at the same time.
Make Sure Your Public Profiles Are Clear
In order for others to connect with you personally and professionally, you have to put yourself out there. That can involve several different strategies, including updating your LinkedIn and other social media profiles so that they’re polished and your goals are clear. It can also look like having an elevator pitch when introducing yourself at events and conferences, and perhaps a business card to keep the connection solid. You’ll also want to clean up your resume and remove outdated roles, so that you’re ready for your next opportunity.
Maintain Your Connections
It’s one thing to meet a new person at a conference, but it’s another thing to continue that relationship after the event has ended. Have your business card, LinkedIn info, email address, or phone number ready to pass on to new connections, and follow up with them in the weeks after. This proactive approach allows conversations to continue and potential relationships to flourish, which can lead to further opportunities.
Be Clear With What You Want – And Reciprocate
Speaking of further opportunities, don’t be afraid to reach out to your network when you need a favor, whether it’s a referral for a new role or a connection to a new person. However, make sure you’re not spending all your time asking – in order to maintain positive and genuine relationships, offer help to your network as well.
The Little Touches Make All the Difference
Buying someone’s coffee. Sending a check-in text after a long week. Referring someone even when unprompted. All of these are small actions that don’t take a lot of effort, but they can go a long way towards maintaining strong and meaningful relationships within your network. Your connections should last long-term, and taking small steps on a frequent basis can make this possible.
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