7 Practical Ways to Build a Strong Professional Network
Written by  Daisie Team
Published on 7 min read

Contents

  1. Join Professional Organizations
  2. Attend Networking Events
  3. Volunteer At Industry Conferences
  4. Engage In Online Networking
  5. Find A Mentor
  6. Pursue Collaborations
  7. Build Relationships Through Regular Follow-ups

Are you looking to level up your career game? Building a strong professional network might be the secret sauce you need. In today's fast-paced, interconnected world, it's not just what you know, but who you know. But don't worry—we're not talking about schmoozing or collecting business cards like Pokémon cards. We're talking about forming genuine, two-way relationships that can help open doors, spark ideas, and propel your career forward. Here are seven practical ways you can start building a strong professional network today.

Join Professional Organizations

Let's kick things off with a classic move: joining professional organizations. These are groups made up of individuals who share the same profession or business interests. They're like clubs for grown-ups, but instead of bonding over shared hobbies, you're connecting over shared career paths.

Professional organizations can be beneficial in a multitude of ways:

  • Access to Resources: They typically offer resources such as webinars, articles, and training materials that are specific to your field.
  • Networking Opportunities: You'll get the chance to meet like-minded professionals, which is a great way to start building a strong professional network.
  • Professional Development: Many organizations host workshops, seminars, and conferences that can help you keep your skills sharp and stay on top of industry trends.

So, how do you find the right professional organization for you? Start by thinking about your industry and your role within it. For example, if you're a software developer, you might want to check out groups like the Association for Computing Machinery or the International Association of Engineers. If you're in marketing, the American Marketing Association could be a good fit. And remember, it's not just about joining—it's about participating, contributing, and making connections.

Attend Networking Events

Next up, we have networking events. These come in all shapes and sizes, from small local meetups to large international conferences, and yes, even virtual events. Don't underestimate the power of a friendly handshake—or in these times, a friendly wave over Zoom.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when attending networking events:

  • Be Prepared: Know your elevator pitch. This is a quick, concise summary of who you are, what you do, and what you're passionate about. It's your conversation starter, your foot in the door.
  • Be Genuine: Networking isn't about selling yourself; it's about forming connections. Be authentic, be interested, and be open to new ideas and perspectives.
  • Follow Up: If you've had a good conversation with someone, don't just leave it at that. Send them a follow-up email or connect with them on LinkedIn. Remember, it's about building a strong professional network, not just making a good first impression.

So, where can you find networking events? Professional organizations often hold them, as do industry associations and even some companies. You can also check out websites like Meetup or Eventbrite. And don't just stick to events in your field. Broadening your horizons can lead to unexpected connections and insights.

Volunteer At Industry Conferences

Imagine building a strong professional network while contributing to your industry. Sounds pretty great, right? Then volunteering at industry conferences might be your golden ticket.

Conferences are typically filled with professionals who are eager to learn and connect. So, volunteering can put you in a prime position to meet industry leaders, potential mentors, and colleagues who share your interests.

But, volunteering isn't just about networking opportunities. It's also about giving back to your industry, learning new things, and gaining valuable experience. Here are a few reasons why volunteering can be so beneficial:

  • Gain Insider Knowledge: As a volunteer, you usually get a behind-the-scenes look at the conference. This can provide valuable insights into how your industry operates.
  • Develop New Skills: Volunteering often involves a variety of tasks, from helping with registration to assisting with presentations. These experiences can help you develop new skills that are useful in your professional life.
  • Enhance Your Resume: Adding volunteer experience to your resume can show potential employers that you're committed to your industry and willing to go the extra mile.

So, how do you find opportunities to volunteer? Start by checking the websites of industry conferences to see if they need volunteers. You can also reach out to the organizers directly. Remember, the key is to be proactive and take initiative.

Engage In Online Networking

Who said you need to be in the same room to make a connection? With the rise of digital platforms, the concept of building a strong professional network has expanded beyond physical boundaries. Online networking is a powerful tool you can use to connect with professionals from around the world.

It's like a 24/7 networking event, right at your fingertips. You can interact with industry leaders, join professional groups, and even attend virtual conferences from the comfort of your home. Here are a few tips to make the most of online networking:

  1. Choose the Right Platforms: From LinkedIn to industry-specific forums, there are plenty of platforms where you can network online. Choose those that align with your professional interests.
  2. Be Active: Just like offline networking, online networking requires you to be active. Share updates, comment on posts, and start conversations. Remember, the more you engage, the more visible you'll be.
  3. Keep It Professional: While it's tempting to post cat memes, remember that your online presence is a reflection of your professional image. Keep your interactions professional, yet personable.

Online networking can open up a world of opportunities to build a strong professional network. So, don't underestimate the power of a well-crafted LinkedIn message or a thoughtful comment on a professional forum. You never know where these digital interactions might lead!

Find A Mentor

Ever wished you had a guide to navigate the professional world? Someone who could share valuable insights, give you feedback, and help you grow in your career? That's exactly what a mentor does. And trust us, finding a mentor is a game-changer when it comes to building a strong professional network.

A mentor is like your personal navigation system in the world of work. They've been where you are, they've faced the challenges you're facing, and they've learned a thing or two along the way. Here's how you can find a mentor to enrich your professional network:

  1. Identify Potential Mentors: Look for professionals in your field who inspire you. They could be in your current organization, or they might be someone you admire from afar.
  2. Reach Out: Once you've identified potential mentors, take the initiative to reach out to them. Explain why you admire their work and ask if they'd be willing to mentor you. Remember to be respectful and to acknowledge their time and expertise.
  3. Build a Relationship: Mentorship is not just about professional guidance. It's about building a relationship based on trust and mutual respect. So, be open, be genuine, and be willing to learn.

Finding a mentor is an invaluable step in building a strong professional network, and it might just be the best career decision you'll ever make. So, why wait? Start your mentor search today and unlock the potential of your professional network.

Pursue Collaborations

Ever heard the phrase "Two heads are better than one"? It holds especially true when it comes to building a strong professional network. Collaborations are a fantastic way to expand your network, learn from others, and produce amazing results.

Have you ever been part of a team where everyone’s strengths complemented each other? That's the power of collaboration. When you collaborate with others, you're not just getting the job done. You're building relationships, learning from different perspectives, and creating something incredible together. Here are a few ways you can pursue collaborations:

  1. Look for Opportunities in Your Current Job: You might find a colleague who's working on a project you're interested in. Don't hesitate to offer your help or ask if you can join the team.
  2. Tap into Your Existing Network: You might already know people who would make great collaborators. They could be former classmates, friends, or even family members who share your professional interests.
  3. Explore Online Collaboration Platforms: There are many online platforms designed to connect professionals for joint projects. Just ensure you're clear about your skills and what you’re looking to gain from the collaboration.

Remember, collaborations are reciprocal relationships; both parties should benefit. It's an excellent way to build your skills, grow your network, and add value to your professional life. So, why not give it a try? Start looking for opportunities to collaborate today and take a big step towards building a stronger professional network.

Build Relationships Through Regular Follow-ups

Imagine this: You meet someone at a networking event, exchange business cards, and promise to keep in touch. But then, you never follow up. Does that sound familiar? Unfortunately, that's a common mistake people make when building a strong professional network. But don't worry, there's a simple solution — regular follow-ups.

Following up after an initial meeting or conversation is a key factor in maintaining and strengthening professional relationships. It shows that you value the connection and are interested in continuing the relationship. Here are some strategies to make your follow-ups more effective:

  1. Send a Thank You Note: After meeting someone for the first time, send a brief note expressing your appreciation for their time. It's a small gesture that goes a long way in establishing a positive relationship.
  2. Provide Value: Share an article or resource that you think the person might find useful. This shows that you understand their interests and are invested in the relationship.
  3. Set Up Regular Check-ins: Schedule a call or meeting every few months to catch up. This helps keep the relationship active and allows you to stay updated on each other's progress.

Building a strong professional network is not just about meeting new people — it's about nurturing those relationships. Regular follow-ups are a powerful tool in your networking toolkit, and they can make all the difference in your professional growth. So, don't let those connections fade away. Follow up, keep the conversation going, and watch your network thrive.

If you're looking to expand your professional network, we recommend checking out the workshop 'Building & Maintaining An Authentic Network' by Celina Rodriguez. This workshop will guide you through the process of creating and nurturing a strong, authentic network that will help you excel in your career.