As leaders or emerging leaders, your network is one of your most valuable assets. Networking is more than just exchanging business cards—it’s about building relationships, gaining industry insights, and unlocking opportunities that can shape your career and leadership journey.
Effective networking doesn’t just happen—it’s intentional, strategic, and reflective of your goals as a leader. Whether you’re growing your influence or learning from peers, here are actionable tips (with a little help from AI) to help you develop your leadership network:
Attend networking events: These are ideal for connecting with like-minded professionals and industry leaders who can inspire and challenge you.
Join a professional association: Membership can help establish your reputation, grow your expertise, and provide invaluable networking opportunities.
Leverage social media: Platforms like LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter) are excellent for showcasing your skills, connecting with thought leaders, and expanding your reach.
Follow up with intention: This is the golden rule of networking. Meaningful connections grow when you nurture them.
Attend conventions or industry gatherings: These events are fantastic for forming connections with key players in your field.
Be approachable and curious: Listen actively, ask thoughtful questions, and create a memorable impression.
Boost your confidence: Networking builds self-assurance as you step out of your comfort zone and connect with others.
But beyond AI-generated lists, the real question is how do you start?
Personalizing Your Networking Strategy
For me, networking has always been fun. I found success by approaching it as a game—a way to challenge myself while staying engaged and intentional. I’d keep a journal of the people I met or wanted to meet, noting where we connected and why. Over time, this became a rich resource of opportunities.
To make it exciting, I’d award myself points for various networking activities, such as:
Starting a conversation by finding common ground.
Reading about someone in my network and engaging with their content (e.g., liking, commenting, or sharing).
Sending an article or resource that aligns with their interests.
Asking for their insights or offering my own.
Learning something new and sharing it with someone in my network.
Researching innovative organizations and inviting their thoughts.
This gamified approach not only made networking stress-free but also reinforced its importance in a way that felt natural and fun.
Mindset Matters More Than Strategy
In today’s dynamic environment, where face-to-face contact might look different, the “how” of networking has evolved, but the “why” remains the same—people need to feel connected and valued. As a leader, your attitude toward networking plays a significant role in its success.
When you approach networking with curiosity and authenticity, it becomes more enjoyable and rewarding. The practical tips and strategies are important, but your mindset is what makes all the difference. Give yourself permission to make your own rules, play to your strengths, and start with what feels manageable. Begin small, but think big—you’ll be surprised at how far you can go.
Networking Is Leadership in Action
Effective leaders know that influence grows through relationships. Networking isn’t just about personal gain; it’s about mutual growth, shared learning, and building a supportive community of like-minded professionals. By taking intentional steps to grow your network, you’re actively investing in your leadership development.
To learn more about Networking for Leadership Growth or to explore training opportunities, contact Training Edge at info@trainingedge.com, or reach out to Barbara Ann Sharon, Chief Training Officer, at 610.454.1557.
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