45. My Almost-Guaranteed method for Networking Success!

Sep 01, 2023

I hated networking, I thought it was fake, sales-like and a bit overwhelming.

For the first 20 years of my career I didn’t put any effort into networking!

I rate myself as practical and pragmatic but also busy. Standing around having small talk with a bunch of people I don’t know seemed like an incredible waste of time.

What am I going to say to people that I meet?
How am I going to introduce myself?
What if they don't like me?
What am I going to wear?
Is it going to be all men?

I realised I needed to grow my network to:

expand my knowledge,
unlock career opportunities
develop professionally.

A friend of my husbands wanted to be the best know person in Digital. I remember thinking really?

Well guess what, Dave has now been a CEO and Managing Director of a couple of companies, he has been a Non-executive director of a couple of other companies and also started a company from scratch.

Today I am sharing my formula for Networking so that it is achievable for YOU!

And guess what the best way to start networking is to start networking.

Let’s dive in.

Step 1. Get started

When I started heading out to industry events I took a friend or a colleague or some may say a support person. Someone to hang out with. The more I did this, the more comfortable that I started to feel. Also I met more people in my industry so that when I did go out - I knew more people.

Now when I go along to industry events there are often people that I know at the event which is great!

When you think about your career - how regularly are you getting out in your industry and meeting new people?

Start getting out to a couple of events and see what happens - then you can make a plan about what is working and what is not.

Step 2. Identify your Goals

Have a think about what you want to achieve through networking.

Are you looking for:

career opportunites,

mentorship,
knowledge sharing, or professional development?

Having clear goals will guide your networking efforts plus determine where you spend your time.

Step 3. Build Genuine Relationships

Networking is about building authentic connections. Focus on getting to know people on a personal level, not just as potential professional contacts. Authentic relationships are more likely to be beneficial in the long run.

Step 4. Attend Relevant Events

Attend industry conferences, seminars, workshops, and meetups related to your field. These events provide opportunities to meet like-minded professionals, learn about the latest trends, and exchange ideas.

Step 5. Online Networking

Utilise social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your industry. Join relevant groups and participate in discussions to showcase your expertise and engage with others.

Step 6. Networking Organisations

Look for networking groups or organisations specifically designed for women in your field. These groups often offer events, workshops, and mentorship opportunities tailored to women's needs.

Some great examples that I like are : Vic ICT for Women and One Roof run by Sheree Rubenstein.

Step 7. Seek Mentorship

Find experienced professionals, both male and female, who can provide guidance and support. A mentor can offer insights, advice, and help you navigate your career path.

I have always sought out the advice of older more experienced women - they have often had exactly the same experience that you have had.

Step 8. Give Before You Receive

Networking is a two-way street. Offer help, information, or support to others before seeking favours. This establishes a positive reputation and fosters goodwill.

Step 9. Elevate Your Elevator Pitch

Prepare a concise and compelling elevator pitch that highlights your skills, accomplishments, and aspirations.

Being able to clearly communicate your value is crucial when meeting new people.

Have a listen to a recent podcast episode where I interview Karen Stein and we talked about this.

Be your own career Leadership coach with Karen Stein

Step 10. Follow Up

After networking events, follow up with the people you've connected with.

Send personalised messages expressing your interest in maintaining the connection and collaborating in the future.

Remember networking is about building meaningful relationships, not just collecting business cards.

Approach it with a genuine desire to connect and contribute to your industry or field, and you'll find that networking can lead to numerous benefits for your personal and professional growth.

Plus remember to have some fun - I have met many wonderful people at networking events that I am still in touch with many years later.

Don’t leave it 20 years like I did to get out there!

This Week’s Action Step

That’s it for today.

See you next week. xx

Take Control and Grow Your Career

Join 100's+ subscribers to my career newsletter.

Every Saturday morning, you'll get 1 actionable tip to take control and grow your career.