October 08, 2024 by SME Membership Networking can often feel stressful and overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. In our September SME Career Cafe, Jacquie Connolly-Peros, MPBS, CDBS, Career Branding Strategist and Arthur Hughes, Executive Client Partner and Career Transition & Job Search Strategist, shared essential strategies that can transform networking from a challenging task into an easy and manageable process. Personal Branding in Networking In today’s networking landscape, personal branding plays a critical role in building meaningful connections. Jacquie emphasized that authenticity is key to showcasing who you are, what you value, and what sets you apart. Take time to uncover your values, motivators, and unique skills. This will help you better communicate your strengths and boost confidence in networking situations. Arthur added that authenticity and self-awareness are crucial for effective networking. When you clearly articulate your personal brand—whether through examples of projects or a well-crafted elevator pitch—you convey the value you bring to an organization. Preparation is key, whether in-person or virtual, and having a concise, practiced introduction can make new connections feel more natural. Goal Setting for Meaningful Networking Jacquie highlighted that having a plan reduces stress and anxiety, especially for those who aren’t natural networkers. Focus on quality over quantity—target key individuals you want to connect with rather than trying to meet everyone. This approach leads to more meaningful conversations and sets the stage for productive follow-ups. Arthur added that pre-event research is crucial. Knowing your purpose for attending—whether it’s to explore job opportunities, learn new technologies, or find mentors—helps develop a focused strategy. Actively engage with event attendees, and consider what value you can offer others, not just what you seek. Using event-specific apps and personalizing outreach with shared experiences can further enhance your ability to build authentic, long-lasting connections. Maximizing LinkedIn for Consistent and Strategic Networking Using LinkedIn effectively for networking requires consistency and strategic engagement. Jacquie shared that consistent engagement is key to staying visible and maintaining credibility within your network. Set aside dedicated time each week, whether an hour or just 5-10 minutes daily. This can be as simple as commenting on posts or sharing relevant articles. Arthur Hughes explained that creating your own posts, such as event highlights or sharing insights, boosts visibility. Posting photos with speakers and tagging individuals strengthens connections, while consistent sharing of valuable content can help establish thought leadership within your network. Maintaining and Exchanging Connections After Networking Events Maintaining connections after networking events is fundamental for building long-term professional relationships. Consistency plays a crucial role, as Jacquie advised, by regularly reviewing and updating LinkedIn connections to ensure they align with current goals. Follow-up with individuals you’ve met after a couple of weeks and revisit those connections periodically to strengthen relationships. Arthur emphasized developing a networking strategy that aligns with career and personal development goals, allowing you to target specific individuals. Regularly initiate these conversations by referencing past discussions, keeping the relationship active and valuable. Networking in the Workplace Arthur stressed that simply relying on hard work in your current role may not lead to new opportunities. Instead, professionals should focus on visibility by engaging in cross-departmental projects and task forces, which offer exposure to various business functions. Mentorship, including reverse mentoring — where younger employees guide senior staff — can significantly promote leadership potential and personal growth. Jacquie suggested participating in philanthropic initiatives within your company, as they provide a way to connect with colleagues from other divisions. Hosting "Lunch and Learn" sessions can further enhance internal networking, allowing you to showcase your expertise and position yourself as a thought leader. For remote networking, Jacquie underscored the importance of being intentional. Always turn on your camera during calls, actively engage, and follow up with participants afterward. Arthur agreed that being fully present during meetings, using chat functions, and initiating conversations can maximize networking opportunities, even in virtual environments. By staying informed about company activities and seeking cross-functional involvement, professionals can expand their internal networks effectively. Conclusion Networking doesn’t have to be a source of stress or anxiety. By employing the strategies shared by Jacquie and Arthur, you can navigate networking with confidence and intention. Focus on nurturing relationships and staying engaged with your network while setting effective goals that align with your career aspirations. If you're looking for more guidance on how to establish meaningful milestones for your professional journey, be sure to check out our last article, "Defining Success: Setting Effective Career Milestones and Goals." Together, these insights will empower you to take charge of your networking and career growth. Happy networking!
