How to Network for Career Growth

Most people tell you to network, but they don’t teach you how. Here’s what you can do: 🔹 Quality Over Quantity: Before attending, study the event's attendee list and identify 2-3 people you want to meet. This focused approach can lead to deeper, more meaningful conversations. I’ve recently done this myself at a TED event. 🔹 Adopt a Giving Mindset: Offer to share your expertise or resources. For example, if someone is working on a project you have experience with, volunteer to provide insights or introduce them to someone who can help. This shows you're invested in their success. 🔹 Research Smartly: Look into their recent projects or publications. If your contact has recently published a paper or given a talk, read it and mention specific points you found intriguing or valuable. This demonstrates genuine interest and sets you apart. 🔹 Make the First Move: Send a message acknowledging a challenge they mentioned in a public forum or LinkedIn comment. For example: "Hi [Name], I saw your post about the challenges of remote team management. I've faced similar issues and found that regular virtual coffee breaks helped. Would love to share more if you're interested. Best, [Your Name]" 🔹 Build a Habit: Set a weekly reminder to engage with your network on social media. This could be liking, commenting on, or sharing posts from your contacts. Regular engagement keeps you top of mind and builds a foundation for deeper connections. Tomorrow’s newsletter is packed with actionable insights to turn casual contacts into valuable connections. ➡ Sign up here: https://lnkd.in/eE-aFmFy 💜 Career Well-being is the best work-life newsletter, according to my readers! Join us! #NetworkingTips #CareerDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #careerbutterfly #CareerWellbeing

How does networking turn into a job opportunity? We've all heard it before - networking is crucial for career growth and finding new job opportunities. But how do you tap into your network authentically without coming across as simply using connections? Truthfully build relationships that are built on mutual understanding and value exchange. Networking was never a one-way street and should be done with long-term intentions. Here are a few things I did that allowed me to turn relationships into career opportunities: 1. Provide Value First - Before asking for ANYTHING, see how you can help. This can be done through sharing industry insights, personal contacts, or sharing your expertise on a subject matter pro bono. 2. Express Authentic Interest - It's obvious when you're faking it! Learn their goals, interests, and pain points and ask thoughtful questions to have real conversations about more than just work. 3. Stay Top-of-Mind - Share updates on projects you're working on, milestones you've hit, or just check in periodically. This allows you to stay present in conversation. 4. Pay it Forward - Make intros between connections who could benefit each other, without the expectancy of something in return. Adopt the habit of giving just to give! These tips have allowed me to turn my network into my career superpower, supporting personal and professional goals. Drop some of your tips for building genuine relationships in the comments. #Networking #BlackLinkedIn

Networking changed my career for the better! I haven’t always been the best at keeping relationships, especially after leaving a role. However, I’ve been networking within my industry for the past several years, and it has changed everything. First, I began to attend events in my field. I joined the Professional Association of Résumé Writers and Career Coaches to continue learning more about resume writing and career coaching. Over time, I began to get to know my fellow peers. I started to reach out and respond to those who contacted me. Sometimes, we messaged on LinkedIn and that was it. Other times, I had Zoom calls. And in a special case, I set up bi-weekly Happy Hours to talk business and share ideas. So why network? - Insights and Knowledge: Interacting with professionals in your field can provide a wealth of knowledge and different perspectives. I’ve learned so much from Denise Bitler, MRW, CPRW, CDBS, CICNC, CIC, Mark Misiano, MBA, CPRW, CDCS, and John Suarez, MBA, CPRW. - Mentorship: Networking can connect you with potential mentors who can guide your career development. Angie M. Callen, CPRW, CPCC became a friend and mentor. We discuss business strategy and how to bring more value to my clients. I’ve evolved countless times since meeting Angie. - Career Opportunities: Often, new job prospects come from within your network. It’s about being in the right place with the right connections. Because I was vocal during webinars, Margaret Phares asked me to lead a webinar series for PARWCC. From there, I later landed a role on the leadership team, developing and administering the CPRW (a resume writing exam). How can you network effectively? - Be Genuine: Authenticity in networking creates meaningful connections. Don’t wait to be laid off from your role. Make connections constantly. - Attend Professional Events: Conferences, seminars, and industry meet-ups are great places to meet like-minded professionals. - Engage in Online Forums: Platforms like LinkedIn groups, industry-specific forums, and virtual webinars offer global connections. - Offer Value: Networking is a two-way street. Think about how you can help others as well. Let’s discuss: How has networking influenced your career? Do you have any tips for effective networking? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! 💬 #professionalnetworking #careerdevelopment #careergrowth #networkingtips

🚀 The Power of Networking: How One Message Can Change Everything Let’s be real—landing opportunities isn’t just about having the perfect resume or a high GPA. In today’s world, it’s about who you know. Networking can open doors that a cold application never could—whether it’s referrals, expedited applications, or career-changing advice, one conversation can make all the difference. For me, networking isn’t just about sending DMs—it’s about putting myself in spaces where opportunities exist. Here’s what has worked for me: ✅ Attend Career Fairs, Networking Events & Conferences – One of the best ways to expand your network beyond your school and community is by attending events where recruiters and industry professionals are present. I’ve attended NSBE, AfroTech, and various advocacy-focused conferences, and each has connected me to new people, career opportunities, and mentorship. These spaces allow you to meet professionals in different industries, learn about new roles, and even secure internships on the spot. ✅ Build Multiple Networks – You don’t have to limit yourself to one professional space. I have a tech & innovation network that helps me grow in my career, and I also have an advocacy & community service network that aligns with my passion for youth empowerment. Both have led to meaningful opportunities because of the relationships I’ve built. The more diverse your network, the more opportunities you create for yourself. ✅ Utilize LinkedIn, Handshake & Career Services – These platforms are more than just job boards—they are relationship-building tools. Your next opportunity could come from a LinkedIn connection, a recruiter reaching out on Handshake, or a career counselor introducing you to an employer. Use every resource available! ✅ Ask for Virtual Coffee Chats – A simple 15-minute conversation with a professional can lead to mentorship, a job referral, or even an unexpected opportunity. The hardest part is reaching out, but most people are willing to help if you ask. A message like, “Hey [Name], I admire your work in [Industry]. I’d love to learn more about your experience at [Company]. Would you be open to a quick virtual coffee chat?” can go a long way. ✅ Take That First Step – I know it can be intimidating, but DM that person, introduce yourself at an event, ask that question. You never know where it could lead. Every opportunity I’ve had came from simply putting myself out there. Networking has allowed me to integrate all my passions—tech, advocacy, and even traveling. And the best part? It all started with a single conversation. 👇🏾 What’s one opportunity you’ve landed through networking? Drop your story in the comments!

Networking is NOT about collecting contacts; it’s about connecting with those contacts. I’ve seen people grow their careers, close new deals, and grab unknown opportunities out of nowhere because they knew the right people, AND those people trusted them. Like they say, your network is your net worth; it’s about who knows YOU and believes in you. ✅ Here are 3 nuggets on how you can network like a pro: - Lead with value, not with asks: When you meet someone who immediately asks for a favor, you feel sales-y and awkward, right? Don't be that person. Instead, offer something of value first. - Ask better questions: Everyone asks, “What do you do?” and forgets the answer 5 minutes later. Stand out with unique questions that spark real conversations. Ask, 1. What’s the most exciting thing you’re working on right now? 2. What’s one challenge you’re trying to solve? 3. What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received? People don’t remember what you did; they remember how you made them feel. - Stand out by following up: Most people meet once, exchange numbers, and never speak again. That’s only meeting people. If you want to stand out, go the extra mile, send them a personalized message, and stay in touch. A simple follow-up can turn a chat into a long-term relationship. The best jobs, biggest deals, and most unexpected opportunities don’t come from cold applications. They come from relationships. Networking isn’t a one-time event; it’s a lifelong habit. Start today. My personal and professional network has expanded significantly through the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) and NextUp, both of which are valuable professional organizations. I personally believe the best way to network is by volunteering your time and skills—demonstrating your expertise to peers and industry leaders rather than just telling them about it. What’s the best networking tip that’s worked for you? #networking #career #growth #leadership #success

Networking isn't just about exchanging business cards; it's about connecting, learning, and growing. As a CEO and entrepreneur deeply immersed in personal development, I've found that authentic connections can be the catalyst for both personal and professional growth. Here are three networking tips that have transformed my approach: 1. Be Curious: Genuine interest in others fosters deeper connections. Ask insightful questions that go beyond the surface. It's not just about what someone does, but why they do it. 2. Provide Value: Networking is a two-way street. Think about how you can help others before considering what they can do for you. Share knowledge, offer assistance, or connect them with someone in your network. 3. Follow Up: The magic happens after the event. Reach out with a personalized message referencing your conversation. This demonstrates attentiveness and sets the stage for a lasting relationship. Now, I pose this question to you: What networking strategies have you found most effective for creating meaningful professional relationships? Engage with this post by sharing your insights in the comments. If you find these tips useful, give this post a like or pass it on to help others in your network. Let's learn from each other and expand our collective networking prowess. #Networking #Growth #Strategy