Building Your Professional Network
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the importance of networking and mentorship. We all know that these two activities can be crucial in any professional’s long-term success, but I kept coming back to them as separate activities and it just didn’t sit right with me.
Often the terms networking and mentorship leave two distinct images in our head. Of course, networking leads to a new job opportunity and mentorship is an opportunity for someone more established to reach out to someone who is still new to the field. However, in my experience, a more complex, combined version of these two activities has given me a professional self-esteem that has prevented me from suffering FOMO, imposter syndrome, and other dreaded entrepreneurial diseases...and I must share it with you!
Professional community building combines networking and all types of mentorship and it’s something that everyone can and should be doing RIGHT NOW!
You’re probably wondering why you should have a professional community or why it’s even important. There are a number of reasons, but for me, it’s a group that shares my professional values and maintains a high level of integrity. It gives me the freedom to ask questions, provides honest feedback, supports others through their setbacks, and truly celebrates success. Members of my professional community mean what they say and say what they mean. They come through when I most need it and they rely on me to be a strong link.
My professional community began developing itself in college. Through my college internship work and my activity in organizations like honor society, student government, and my sorority, I learned the importance of developing professional relationships and the importance of being a strong professional community member myself. Those I met in college are still part of my professional community today.
Do you feel like this part of your professional life is missing or lacking? If so, you have the power to change this! Developing a professional community is hard work, but it can be done.
Professional communities have three general “populations.”
1. Experienced mentors or supporters
Reach out to those with more experience and strive to build those relationships. If you have previous mentors or bosses that you still keep in touch with, that’s a great place to start. Keep in mind that they generally have great demands placed on their time. Be respectful of that and build your relationship with these people strategically. If you know them well enough, maybe you could ask them to meet you regularly for lunch or coffee. Remember, you’re a part of this community, too. If you come across a great industry-related article or publication or there’s an upcoming industry event that the person might be interested in attending, send those things their way. This also helps you continue the conversation with him or her and presents learning opportunities for both of you.
2. Your peer network
Engage your peer network. Do you know people who are at the same level of their careers as you are? In my opinion, these are the people you most need in your professional life. They are trusted confidants who are going through some of the same challenges you face - personally and professionally. Make time in your life for these people by working together for a common cause or enjoying hobbies together. This group shares opportunities, helps each other through transitions and challenges, and they’re there to celebrate each other’s success, too.
3. Those starting out, starting over, or transitioning
Look for others to pull up. If you are established in your field or career, you probably didn’t get there alone. Take time to remember and acknowledged those who pulled you up (maybe they’re still your mentors) and what it feels like to start out, start over, or transition. Take advantage of opportunities to invite those who are starting out or starting over to in-person events or to lunch or coffee with one or two of your peers so they have a chance to meet others who could possibly help them advance professionally.
Professional communities will overlap, but everyone can build their community based on where they’re at in their professional journey and what they value most. Personally, I try to maintain a good mix of military and non-military connected community members, though the farther we get in my husband’s military career, the harder this seems to be. Also, don’t be afraid to extend your community into different industries or fields. A diverse community yields great results.
Understand the concept, but just aren’t sure what steps to take first? Start with those you know. Reach out to them and schedule a lunch or coffee to catch up. Before you leave your meeting with that person, try to schedule the next one. Everyone has a busy schedule, so getting on his or her calendar early is important.
Are you new to the area and don’t know anyone? Look for in-person events or activities. Military spouses should try to attend the next Hiring Our Heroes - Military Spouse Professional Network event in their area. Don’t have a network in your area, START ONE! It’s the perfect opportunity to meet other professionals and local employers. You could also check out your local chamber of commerce, Rotary Club, Lions Club, or other civic organizations.
You can also grow your network from your hobbies or interests. If you like running, check out a local running club and strike up conversations with other runners. Don’t forget any clubs or organizations that you’ve belonged to in the past. Sororities and fraternities can be a great source for professional community building.
Regardless of how you go about building your professional community, it will only be as strong as you make it. Without a doubt, it is a place to give first. Work to connect others, share information, invite others to networking opportunities, etc.
It does require work, but don’t let that scare you. The time to grow your professional community is now! Whether you’re unemployed or underemployed (and if you’re a military spouse reading this, there’s a good chance you’re in one of those categories!) or you’re currently sailing along in a wonderful career, your community needs your attention. Investing time into your professional community is a great way to build your career, but it also gives you the opportunity to leave each place you live and work a little better than you found it.