How to Develop a Professional Network
Building a network is one of the best ways to improve your career. Networking isn’t as difficult as it seems. You are already part of a network even though you are new. Developing, managing, and utilising it efficiently requires knowledge.
What Is a Professional Network?
A professional network is a group of individuals who have met for professional or commercial purposes. Members may exchange information with their contacts, including employment leads. They may also share information on potential employers, workers, and customers.
How Can Networking Help Advance My Career?
A professional network may help you discover leads for jobs, but it can also help you grow in your career. Here are a few:
Learn about a career: Researching potential careers is critical while deciding on one. An informative interview with someone presently employed in a profession is one of the greatest methods to learn about a vacancy. You may ask your network for assistance interviewing individuals.
Find job candidates: If you are in charge of recruiting, your connections can assist you to find qualified applicants. You may also learn about non-networked candidates.
Get project advice: Do you fear taking on a new job project? Anyone who has done something similar may be able to help or refer you to someone who can.
Precaution: do not divulge private information.
Know your potential employer: Always study potential employers before job interviews. Talking to your network and their connections may teach you a lot.
Prepare client pitches: Do you need to research a new client? Your connections may be able to assist, but again, be careful about providing sensitive information.
Who Should You Include?
Your network may include virtually anybody you’ve met, as long as they’re trustworthy. Guilt by association exists, therefore don’t let someone else’s misdeeds taint your own. Your connections may lead to more. Here are some ideas:
Former coworkers: Connect with current and former coworkers.
Professional association members: Attend professional association conferences or events and introduce yourself to other participants. Bring business cards with your non-work contact information. Become an active member by joining a committee. It will also allow your coworkers to watch you in action.
Family: Inform your loved ones about your professional objectives. You never know who can assist you. This person may be a recruiter in your profession.
Ex-professors and teachers: College or university professors, particularly those who taught in your major, should be in your network.
Ex-colleagues: Check your institution or university’s alumni directory for connections. Look into your fraternity or sorority.
