Knowing how to network is important for career advancement and is one of the most effective strategies for finding internship opportunities. While networking is about more than simply finding your next step up the career ladder, building a strong base of professional connections can help you find your ideal job.
Learn how networking works in practice and how to build and maintain a strong professional network with our effective networking strategies for career growth.
Understanding networking for career advancement
In a career setting, networking is the process of building a strong professional network and maintaining relationships that can benefit one's profession. It involves connecting with people to share information, advice, and opportunities.
There are a few misconceptions about networking. Many people believe that attending formal networking events is the only way to network. In reality, networking can happen anywhere, and you can do it in many ways.
- Formal networking involves structured, organized events and activities designed specifically for professional connection and relationship building. Examples include conferences, workshops, alumni networking events, and professional association meetings.
- Informal networking occurs in more casual settings, focusing on building relationships without specific professional goals. This style of networking may involve social gatherings, social media interactions, and casual interactions.
While it's important to connect with industry peers, networking across different fields can provide unique perspectives and lead to more innovative ideas and opportunities. You don't need a vast network to achieve success—having a smaller number of strong, meaningful connections can be more beneficial for advancing in your career.
Remember, effective networking takes time and effort but can open doors to new possibilities.
Building your personal brand
Your personal brand is the way you differentiate yourself and showcase your skills, values, and personality. Building a personal brand is an essential aspect of career development that empowers you to stand out in a competitive job market. You can build your brand through relationship-building, authenticity, and providing value.
- Engage in meaningful conversations: Instead of pitching yourself, ask others about their experiences, challenges, and insights. Pay attention to what others say and respond thoughtfully. This approach fosters deeper connections, shows genuine interest, and demonstrates that you value their input.
- Offer help and support: Offer assistance on projects or initiatives where your skills align. You can also share useful articles, tools, or contacts that may benefit others in your network. Contributing to your team enhances your reputation and positions you as a helpful resource rather than someone looking for personal gain.
- Create valuable content: Share your expertise and insights through a blog or post articles and industry news on social media platforms. Focus on sharing knowledge and engaging with your audience without directly promoting yourself.
- Leverage mutual connections: Ask mutual connections for introductions rather than directly pitching yourself to new contacts. This approach adds credibility and warmth to introductions.
Professional networking tips
Here are some best practices for effective networking, whether you're doing it in person or online:
Face-to-face networking strategies
Networking in person allows you to build relationships through direct communication, assess nonverbal cues, and adjust your conversations in real time.
Try these strategies for navigating in-person networking interactions effectively:
- Start with your circle: Connect with friends, family, classmates, colleagues, and mentors to leverage existing relationships for new opportunities.
- Attend events: Participate in career fairs, industry-specific conferences, and networking events to meet professionals and learn about trends in your field. An effective networking event can be the perfect place to start your networking journey.
- Join professional organizations: Become a member of industry associations to access networking opportunities.
- Schedule informational interviews: Meet with experienced professionals to gain insights about their careers and build valuable connections.
- Volunteer for community service: Get involved in community activities or local organizations related to your field to expand your network while giving back.
- Participate in local meetups: Join groups or clubs related to your interests or industry to connect with like-minded individuals.
Online networking strategies
Building relationships through digital platforms and virtual interactions allows you to connect with professionals globally, expanding your network beyond geographical limitations.
Here's how to leverage online networking opportunities:
- Use social media: LinkedIn is the most prominent career social media platform. Optimize and maintain a professional profile there and on other platforms. Connect with industry peers, share insights, and engage in discussions relevant to your ideal career.
- Participate in virtual events: Attend online webinars, workshops, or conferences that allow you to learn from experts while networking with other attendees.
- Participate in online forums: Join industry-specific forums or discussion boards to connect with professionals and share knowledge.
Additional strategies
These are some additional networking strategies to help you stand out from other candidates:
- Follow up: After meeting someone new, send a personalized message to thank them and maintain the connection. This extra effort helps solidify relationships.
- Stay organized: Keep track of your contacts and conversations to ensure you follow up appropriately and maintain relationships over time, even after you find a job.
- Be authentic: Be yourself, ask open-ended questions, and listen actively to foster meaningful connections.
Overcoming networking challenges
Networking may be particularly challenging for some individuals due to shyness, social anxiety, sensory overload, or communication challenges. Consider a few strategies for overcoming networking challenges:
- Prepare in advance: If you're attending an event or conference, research relevant topics of interest beforehand. Prepare a few conversation starters or questions to ease into discussions.
- Set realistic goals: Instead of aiming to meet many people at once, set smaller goals, such as introducing yourself to just one new person at an event.
- Network online: Connect with others on online platforms at your own pace without the pressure of face-to-face interaction.
- Find smaller events: Attend smaller events, workshops, or meetups that feel less intimidating than large conferences.
- Practice active listening: Focus on listening and asking follow-up questions. This strategy takes the pressure off and allows you to engage with what others are saying without needing extensive verbal input.
- Bring allies: Attend events with a friend or colleague who is more comfortable with networking to help facilitate introductions and ease anxiety.
- Use visual aids: After a brief conversation, hand out a business card with contact information to make it easy for others to follow up. This step also serves as a tangible way to introduce yourself.
- Practice mindfulness: Before an event, use mindfulness exercises to calm the nerves and center yourself. After the event, do a self-care activity that you enjoy.
Apply for a role at Intuitive today
Networking plays a fundamental role in career advancement opportunities. By joining an organization's talent community and following them on social media platforms, you can stay up to date with their job openings, company news, and employee stories. As a result, you have the opportunity to engage with the organization and other individuals with similar interests and backgrounds.
At Intuitive, you can be part of a talented workforce with a passion for advancing minimally invasive care. If you're searching for a new role, we invite you to apply to join our dynamic team today. You can also sign up for our Talent Community to stay updated on future positions and company news.
