Based on an interesting article on the Fast Company site, we share with you three strategies that we believe are the most successful in networking and increasing your professional connections to be recognized in your field or industry.
Did you know that, according to a study by Marketing Expertus in 2020, only 25% of professionals actually network?
If you are looking to stand out in your professional field, here is a plan to start working now and be part of those professionals who use personal networks to their advantage.
Probably, some of these initiatives will invite you to get out of your comfort zone - which we consider perfect - and that means that you are making an extra effort to grow professionally and be recognized in your field.
Having the clear objective, to raise your professional reputation and your knowledge base, let's move on to the strategies:
1. Add value.
A great and simple way is to keep in touch with colleagues. A fundamental part of networks is working on them over time, looking for spaces to, from time to time, write to that person and ask about their family and projects. Do not seek to need people to write, always dedicate time of your week to communicate and put yourself in order in anything you may need.
In fact, if you are in the same city or planning a trip to where this person is, do not miss the opportunity to have a coffee. Personal relationships are wonderful, especially if we cultivate them.
At this point, it is also valuable to approach associations, business accelerator programs, or institutions with the same purposes. Networking is magic; where you can add value, you always have more room to grow. Definitely sharing experiences with others creates bonds that open doors and build connections.
According to a LinkedIn report (2020) “73% of survey participants reported that they had been hired in the past as a result of an introduction or connection from someone they know.
2. Stay active on your Social Networks.
Today it is vital to stay active on professional Social Networks such as LinkedIn since it is where a large part of the events and relationships take place. Therefore, it should not detract from spending a couple of hours a week to contact, congratulate and even write articles that allow you to keep up to date in your sector.
It is very interesting to take advantage of these networks to find mutual connections that allow you to interact with third parties, this will make it easier for you to make that common meeting point with that person with whom you would like to connect by referring to the person or work in common.
Professionals who spent 6.3 hours per week on networking said it played a crucial role in their success (Marketing Expertus, 2020).
3. Get involved in initiatives.
Today there are many ways to build relationships in whatever industry you are in. You can look to participate in thematic podcasts, even be the host of one. You can also look to participate in events as a speaker. Look for actions that allow you to meet people in the sector, this will always be beneficial to you.
A good initiative is to approach the producers of congresses related to your industry to seek to create that link, which allows you, more and more, to have a stronger and more recognized personal brand in your sector.
Nearly 61% of professionals around the world agree that regular online interaction with their professional network can lead to potential job opportunities (LinkedIn, 2017).
So don't wait any longer and start working on your networks. A great way is to reconnect with your fellow students or start a new educational challenge, like a Ph.D., that allows you to make valuable connections. Don't be afraid to look for options. During doctoral and postdoctoral studies, you will have the opportunity to increase your networking, even with professionals from other latitudes, which will surely translate into numerous opportunities.