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Networking with Purpose

October 15, 2024

Building Authentic Connections for Career Growth


In the world of professional advancement, one thing remains constant: the importance of networking. We've all heard the phrase "It's not what you know, it's who you know," and while skills and expertise are vital, the relationships we build along the way often play a pivotal role in our success. Networking can open doors, offer mentorship, and provide opportunities that might not otherwise be available. However, the key to thriving in your career is not just networking, but networking with purpose.


Gone are the days of purely transactional exchanges. Today, success comes from building authentic, meaningful relationships that go beyond the surface level. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, purposeful networking is one of the most powerful tools you can leverage to advance your career.


Let’s dive into how you can network effectively and build authentic connections that foster growth, both personally and professionally.

A group of people are shaking hands in an office.
1. Shift from Networking to Relationship-Building

 

The first step in networking with purpose is to stop thinking of it as "networking" and start thinking of it as "relationship-building." The aim is not to collect as many contacts as possible, but to establish quality connections that will benefit both parties.


 “Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities.” — Michele Jennae

 

Building authentic relationships means showing genuine interest in others—understanding their goals, challenges, and aspirations. It’s about creating a support system where everyone involved can share advice, ideas, and encouragement. When you focus on relationship-building, you create a strong, reliable network that can be a source of guidance and opportunity for years to come.


2. Be Intentional with Your Time

 

In today’s fast-paced professional world, time is one of our most valuable resources. To network effectively, it’s important to be intentional with how you spend your time. Rather than attending every event or saying yes to every coffee meeting, focus on the people and opportunities that align with your goals and values.



Tip: Before attending a networking event or meeting, set clear objectives. Are you looking to connect with potential mentors, gain insight into a particular industry, or find collaborators for a project? Knowing what you want to achieve will help you make the most of your interactions.


A LinkedIn survey found that 85% of jobs are filled through networking. Purposeful networking can streamline the job search process by connecting you directly with key decision-makers. Learn more here: https://business.linkedin.com/talent-solutions/blog/job-search-tips/2016/the-right-networking-can-help-you-land-your-next-job.


3. Leverage the Power of Mentorship

 

One of the most valuable outcomes of purposeful networking is the potential to build mentorship relationships. Mentors can provide advice, share their experiences, and offer guidance as you navigate your career path. However, finding the right mentor requires more than just seeking out someone successful—it’s about finding someone whose values align with your own and who is genuinely invested in your growth.


Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance. Often, experienced professionals are happy to share their wisdom and help others succeed. Reach out to potential mentors with a clear purpose, explaining why you admire their work and what you hope to learn from them.


 “Mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to listen, and a push in the right direction.” — John C. Crosby


4. Give Before You Get

 

One of the most important principles of building authentic connections is the idea of reciprocity. Networking is a two-way street—it’s not just about what others can do for you, but also about how you can add value to their lives. This can be through offering advice, making introductions, sharing resources, or simply being a supportive colleague.


Tip: Look for ways to give before asking for anything in return. Whether it’s offering help on a project, sharing a helpful article, or recommending a contact, your generosity will help foster trust and establish a foundation for a lasting relationship.


According to a report by the Harvard Business Review, 70% of people who help others in their professional network reported receiving assistance in return, demonstrating the reciprocal nature of effective networking. Learn more here: https://hbr.org/2016/01/learn-to-love-networking.


5. Be Your Authentic Self

 

When building connections, authenticity is key. People are drawn to individuals who are genuine and sincere. Trying to adopt a persona or “networking face” might feel like the right move, but it’s more important to show up as yourself. Authenticity helps create deeper, more meaningful relationships because it allows others to see the real you—and trust is built on honesty.


Tip: Share your story, your passions, and your goals. Be honest about what you’re looking for, and be open to learning from others. When you approach networking with authenticity, you create stronger, more impactful connections.


 “The currency of real networking is not greed but generosity.” — Keith Ferrazzi


6. Follow Up and Stay in Touch

 

A key part of networking that’s often overlooked is the follow-up. After making a connection, it’s important to maintain the relationship. A simple follow-up email, message, or LinkedIn request can go a long way in solidifying the connection you’ve made. This helps keep the relationship alive and ensures that your interaction wasn’t just a one-time occurrence.


Tip: After meeting someone new, send a follow-up message within 48 hours. Mention something specific from your conversation to make the message more personal. Keep in touch periodically, even if it’s just to check in or share something you think they’d find valuable.


Example: “Hi [Name], it was great to meet you at [Event]. I really enjoyed our conversation about [topic], and I’d love to stay in touch. Let’s connect on LinkedIn!”


Studies show that individuals who follow up within 24-48 hours after a networking event are more likely to form lasting connections. Learn more here: https://www.forbes.com/sites/carolinecenizalevine/2019/08/21/networking-101-what-to-say-how-to-follow-up/.


7. Leverage Social Media for Networking

 

In today’s digital age, networking extends far beyond in-person events. Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and even Instagram offer powerful tools for building professional connections. Social media allows you to engage with professionals across the globe, join relevant groups, and participate in meaningful conversations.


Tip: Be active on platforms like LinkedIn. Share insights, comment on posts, and engage with others’ content. This not only helps you stay top-of-mind but also positions you as a thought leader in your field.


According to a report by LinkedIn, 80% of professionals consider networking important for career success, with 35% saying a casual conversation on LinkedIn has led to a new opportunity. Learn more here: https://news.linkedin.com/2017/december/linkedin-data--80--of-professionals-consider-professional-networking.


8. Attend Networking Events with a Purpose

 

Whether it’s conferences, industry events, or virtual meetups, attending networking events is a great way to meet like-minded professionals. However, it’s important to attend these events with a clear purpose in mind. What do you want to achieve? Who do you want to meet? Having a plan will help you make the most of your time.


Tip: Research the attendees, speakers, or companies that will be present at an event. Prepare thoughtful questions and consider how you can contribute to the conversation. Quality connections are made when you’re prepared and genuinely engaged.


Example: At a virtual networking event, make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date, and be ready to share your elevator pitch or career highlights during breakout sessions.


9. Stay Open to New Opportunities

 

Networking is often about being open to possibilities that you may not have considered before. Sometimes, the most unexpected connections can lead to incredible opportunities. Stay open-minded and embrace the diversity of experiences, perspectives, and industries that you encounter.


Tip: When networking, don’t just focus on people within your immediate industry or career level. Be open to connecting with professionals from different fields and backgrounds—there’s always something to learn from everyone you meet.


 “The richest people in the world look for and build networks, everyone else looks for work.” — Robert Kiyosaki

 

Networking with Heart and Intention

 

Networking is not just about collecting business cards or adding LinkedIn connections. It’s about building authentic, purposeful relationships that can support your career growth and personal development. When you network with intention, you’re not just advancing your own goals—you’re creating a community of like-minded professionals who uplift and support each other. So, go out there, build connections with heart, and watch how your career blossoms.

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