Building your Network with Intention

Networking is important. In fact, by some estimates, networking helps as many as 85% of job applicants land their next role.

Yet, for many of us, our networking skills and network just happen. It grows organically through our friends, school connections, work colleagues, or the occasional contact from an event. However, networks grown more naturally may be limited in how much they can help you.

A decade ago, when Ellenore Angelidis was laid off, her network was vital in helping her find another job quickly. She realized that although her network was strong, it could be stronger. Since then, Ellenore worked on prioritizing and deliberately developing a network that aligned with her goals, both personal and professional. She credits her networking abilities to much of her success, which, considering she is a Global Director at Amazon, is no small feat.

The secret is to approach your networking with intention. Establish what you want to accomplish and build a network that reflects your goals.

Below are six tips on building a network with purpose:

Analyze your network and decide whether it is good for accomplishing your goals. Assess the basis of your current network. Is your network grounded in school, work, family, value, or culture? Or a combination of both? This can identify where your network is strong, but also the areas your network won’t grow if you don’t act. Nurture the areas of your network that will not strengthen without more direct focus. Take steps to build your network to align with your goals.

Create an open network. Open networking means networking with anyone and everyone whereas closed networking involves networking with people of similar backgrounds, religions, and industries. Closed networking comes more naturally since similar people are attracted to one another, but it can create echo chambers. Having a more open network will expose you to a broader range of knowledge, views, experiences, and opportunities.

Target events you really have an interest in and want to go to. This will give you an easy topic of conversation and give you the chance to meet like-minded people. You may be more approachable. It’s easier to talk to someone who looks relaxed and like they’re having a good time. Additionally, it takes the onus off trying to meet as many people as possible, you’ll still get something out of the event even if you don’t make great connections. Remember that networking can happen at any kind of event, not just business-oriented ones.

Volunteer to work at an event or conference. Not only is this an opportunity to showcase your work ethic and expand your skills, but it will give you the chance to meet the organizer’s inner circle as well as the event’s sponsors and speakers. It can feel more natural to meet people and strike up conversation when you are working toward a goal. This can be a free way to attend expensive conferences. If you’re currently out of work, volunteering can help fill in a gap in your resume and add to your work experience.

Pencil your chosen networking events into your schedule early. There’s nothing worse than remembering at the last minute that you have an event in downtown Seattle. Spend some time strategizing which events you want to go to each month then plug them into your calendar so it’s no surprise. Keep it practical and don’t overbook yourself. Make it more about quality events you have an interest in versus quantity.

Tailor connection requests and send them promptly. Show a little personality and reference what you talked about or the event you met at, so they remember you. Connecting in a timely fashion allows you to continue your discussion and keeps you top of mind. Never send a connection request to a stranger without a personalized message. Be aware that connecting on mobile or via the LinkedIn app may not allow you to edit the message.

Networking is a powerful tool that only becomes more powerful when nurtured. It’s ultimately about making sincere connections, not gathering business cards. Find some events that spark your interest and get out there!

Interested in a new role? Our Seattle-based recruitment agency can help you find your perfect fit.