Your Network is Your Net Worth!

Discover the Secrets of Building and Nurturing Your Network

Besides supporting your health, an active professional network will help you achieve many career goals. For instance, is corporate board service in your future? Are you interested in mentoring, speaking, pivoting to non-profit work, or volunteering? Is consulting, interim, or a fractional role a good way to use your talents at the crossroads of your career? Exploring these options with other successful people in your network is a great place to start.

Find Your Next Opportunity Through Professional Networking

On average, more than 80% (8 out of 10) of the executives I work with find their next opportunity through professional networking. Senior leadership positions and board of director seats are rarely advertised, so getting referred by your professional networking contacts is the most reliable way to get noticed.

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Here are several steps to strengthen and expand your network:

❶ Develop a Career Management Strategy

Consider what’s next for your career. Then, list ideal connections (role, industry, company) with a perspective on the topic. See who’s already in your network and meet with them first. Ask both for their insights and introductions to one or two additional contacts.

❷ Create a Strong LinkedIn Presence

A good LinkedIn profile is essential because online searches are among the first places recruiters and hiring managers go to find qualified employee candidates. Use a professional photograph and keep your keyword content optimized and current. Don’t forget to include your board service and volunteer work.

❸ Join Groups & Attend Events

Discipline to step away from the PC and get out of the house! Find gatherings with others who share your passions and interests. Conferences and events are great ways to keep up with trends and meet new people. Even charitable fundraisers and sports tournaments put you next to new power connections.

❹ Set Up One-On-One Meetings

Individual conversations form the core of successful networking. Reach out every week and schedule a coffee or a Zoom call with someone. Informational interviews with successful professionals are among the best networking tools for exploring new job opportunities. Keep these in-person discussions focused and short — just 20-40 minutes is all you need.

❺ Set Up a Personal Contact List

Remember to keep track of names, phone numbers and emails in a personal list, rather than your company’s system. That way, you can leverage your network even when you leave your current role.

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RELATED: The Golden Rule of Networking: Building Trust, One Connection at a Time

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❻ Stay Engaged With Your Connections

Keep in touch every month. Block out time (30-60 minutes a day) to read, like, comment and share posts on LinkedIn. Circle back periodically via email or a call with those especially relevant to your goals.

❼ Networking Takes Patience & Commitment

Put aside any anxieties and embrace the benefits of networking. Even with all these benefits, many people still feel anxious about networking. It helps to approach your meetings as a two-way street: You show curiosity, interest, and attention to a fellow professional’s expertise. Most executives are flattered to share their experiences and help others.

❽ Be a Giver, Not a Taker

Remember the value you can offer others (even when you’re retired or in career transition). Make it a habit always to ask, “How can I help you?” Be gracious about making introductions, recommending resources, and staying in touch. When someone goes out of their way to help you, send a follow-up thank you card in U.S. Mail. This is the best way to Be Remembered – Not Forgotten.

It’s time to invest in yourself. Remember, “Your Network is Your Net Worth!” Before you know it, you’ll enjoy fulfilling new career and life opportunities, surrounded by a community of like-minded individuals. That’s the true power of professional networking.

Here’s to your best. Cheers!