“You need to be more visible and have more coffee meetings” was a piece of advice I received from one of my managers early on in my career.
Leaning towards introversion, I used to find networking awkward and energy consuming and so I avoided it as much as I could – not a good career move.
In Denmark, as in many other countries, professional advancement often happens through formal and informal networks and building strategic networks is a skill that should be honed. However, women of colour are less likely to be included in these circles and this exclusion can limit access to mentorship, sponsorship, and insider knowledge about opportunities.
Furthermore, without these connections, even for highly qualified professionals, career progression can stall.
🤝🏽 Strategic networking isn’t about collecting business card or LinkedIn connections. Building a strategic network means going beyond collecting contacts. It’s about cultivating relationships with people who can advocate for you when you’re not in the room. This includes colleagues, mentors, and sponsors who understand your value and can open doors. However, it is not a one-way street, and you should also bring value to the members of your networks, as they do to you.
Last year, ProWoc held a Masterclass on “Building Meaningful Network Connections” and our very own Nyeleti Sue-Angel Nkuna shared sage advice on how to network with maximum success and impact.
Successful networking involves ACE: Authenticity, Engagement and Curiosity
🤝🏽 Be intentional with the connection: what mutual benefit can arise out of the relationship?
🤝🏽 Develop an elevator pitch: lead with the value of your work and not stick to your job title as these can be reductive. An inventory of your life will help you weave a compelling story.
🤝🏽 Find commonality: Thinking about what you can give instead of what the other party has will set you apart from your peers.
Ready to grow your network strategically? Here is how you can start.
👉🏽 Create a list of persons you want to connect with and set a goal to connect with one new professional contact each week. Follow up with value, e.g. share an article, offer help, or simply listen.
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This is the third in a 10-part series on Thriving in the Workplace. Watch this space every Tuesday for inspirational content written by Phaedria Marie St. Hilaire for ProWoc.
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