With a few years spent in the corporate sector, I have come to realize the power of networking and how it can be of great impact on your career.
Having the right skills and experience is important, but there’s another piece to the puzzle that many overlook—networking. Whether you’re looking to land a new job, grow in your career, or simply learn from others, networking can be the catalyst. It’s not just about exchanging contact, following each other on Twitter, collecting business cards, or adding people on LinkedIn; it’s about building real relationships that can boost your professional journey.
Below are some tips on how you can master the art of networking, build genuine connections, and use those relationships to help both yourself and others grow.
Building Genuine Relationships Through Networking
When it comes to networking, many people think it’s about shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries. But successful networking is all about genuine connections. Here’s how you can build them:
- Be Yourself: Authenticity is key. People can tell when you’re trying to be someone you’re not. Just relax and be yourself. When you’re genuine, people are more likely to trust you and want to connect.
- Find Common Ground: Whether it’s a shared passion for technology, a love for traveling, or working in the same industry, having something in common helps break the ice and deepens your connection.
- Help Before You Ask: One of the best ways to build trust is to offer help first. Maybe you know a solution to someone’s problem, have a helpful resource, or can recommend them to someone in your network. By giving before you receive, you naturally strengthen your relationships.
- Listen More Than You Talk: People appreciate a good listener. Show genuine interest in the other person’s story, challenges, or ideas. When you listen well, you leave a lasting impression.
- Diversify Your Network: Don’t limit yourself to just your industry. Reach out to people from different fields and backgrounds. This will give you fresh perspectives and open doors to unexpected opportunities.
How to Leverage Your Network for Career Growth
Now that you’ve built genuine relationships, it’s time to make the most of your network—without being selfish about it.
- Seek Guidance and Mentorship: If you have someone in your network with more experience, don’t be afraid to reach out for advice or mentorship. Many people love to share their knowledge, and their insights can help you navigate your career challenges.
- Collaborate on Projects: If there’s someone in your network with complementary skills, why not work together? Collaboration can lead to exciting new ventures, learning experiences, or even business opportunities.
- Explore Job Opportunities: Many jobs aren’t posted online—they’re shared within networks. By maintaining strong connections, you could hear about opportunities before they’re widely advertised.
- Get Referrals: If you’re applying for a job or pitching a business idea, a referral from someone in your network can make all the difference. People are more likely to trust you if you come with a recommendation from someone they know.
I was listening to one of Vusi Thembekwayo’s talk on three things you need (A mentor, a sponsor, and a coach), each of which has different impact in your career. The talk is for business owners, but why don’t you personalize the talk to your career?
Positioning Yourself as a Leverage for Your Network
Networking is a two-way street. It’s not just about what others can do for you, but what you can bring to the table as well. Here’s how you can position yourself as a valuable connection:
- Be the Connector: Introduce people in your network to each other if you think they could benefit from knowing one another. This not only helps them, but it positions you as a go-to person when it comes to making valuable connections.
- Share Useful Information: Whether it’s a helpful article, a tool, or some industry insights, regularly share resources with people in your network. It’s a small gesture, but it shows that you care and are willing to contribute.
- Celebrate Others’ Successes: Did someone in your network get promoted or land a big job? Take the time to congratulate them. It’s a simple way to stay engaged and show that you support their success.
- Offer Your Expertise: If someone needs help with something you’re good at, offer your expertise. Whether it’s reviewing a resume, giving feedback on a project, or just sharing your experience, people will remember you as a helpful and knowledgeable contact.
Following Up and Building Consistent Communication
Building a network is one thing, but keeping it alive is another. To make sure your relationships don’t fade away, follow-up and consistent communication are key.
- Send a Follow-up Message: After meeting someone new, send a message thanking them for their time and mentioning something specific from your conversation. This makes it personal and shows that you were paying attention.
- Follow each other’s content: Platforms like LinkedIn are great for keeping in touch. Comment on people’s posts, share their achievements, or simply engage with their content to stay on their radar.
- Check-In Regularly: Every few months, send a short message just to check in. It could be as simple as asking how they’re doing or sharing something you think they’d find interesting.
- Meet Up for Coffee or a Call: Whenever possible, take the relationship offline (or at least out of the inbox). Whether it’s a coffee catch-up or a quick call, personal interactions help deepen connections.
If you would like to have a discussion with me concerning your career, community growth, developer relations, or early-stage startup advisory, you can book a free slot on my calendar.
Networking is a Long-Term Game
Networking isn’t about instant results; it’s about playing the long game. By focusing on building genuine relationships, consistently offering value, and staying in touch, you’ll not only boost your career but also create a strong community of support around you.
Remember, networking is all about people. When you invest in others, they’ll be more likely to invest in you, too. So, start nurturing your network today, and who knows? That next career opportunity might just be one conversation away.
