We’ve all heard it before: your network is your networth. Whether you’re growing your business, looking for your next opportunity, or simply wanting to connect with people in your sector, you’re networking. Your circle probably began in school or in your first job. But, how can you continue to expand it? Here are some of our favorite places to grow your network.
At Conferences. Conferences are an amazing opportunity to learn from experts and your peers in your sector. From new tech to tried and true best practices, this is the place to swap ideas. At the end of a long day of sessions comes a key opportunity: networking. Conferences typically have sponsored networking events where you can mingle with folks from all over the country. You already have something in common by just being at the conference, so the conversation is easy to open.
Pro tip: Have both physical business cards as well as virtual business cards to share your information with people you meet. If someone gives you their info, add the name of the event into the “notes” section of the contact so you can easily search for them later in case you forget their name.
Through Professional Organizations.
People want to meet people, and there’s no shortage of organizations helping that happen. There’s everything from the Association of Fundraising Professionals for those working in philanthropic giving to Talent Collective, a social organization for women working in talent acquisition, to the Society for Human Resource Management for HR professionals. These organizations often have virtual networking opportunities or even in-person events through local chapters in major cities.
Pro tip: Having trouble finding events near you on large organizations’ websites? Try searching for events on Facebook, Eventbrite, or local universities’ event calendars.
On Social Media. Websites like LinkedIn are amazing for growing your network without having to leave the house. You can share your work with folks across the country, and even the world, that you may not have otherwise had an opportunity to come across.
With such a large audience, you want to be careful to limit the details and personal information you share. Focus these posts on celebrating work anniversaries, promoting publicly posted openings at your company, and recapping conferences and professional events. If your colleagues or clients are open to being posted, make sure to tag them! Having them repost what you write will increase your reach. Even if they just like or comment, that can open up your content to a new audience.
Pro tip: Have some team photos or royalty-free stock images set aside to use for these posts to make them more engaging.
Building a strong professional network doesn’t happen overnight, but with consistent effort and the right approach, you’ll find your circle expanding naturally. Whether you’re shaking hands at a conference, joining a professional organization, or connecting digitally on LinkedIn, the key is to show up authentically and stay engaged. Remember that networking isn’t just about what others can do for you, it’s about building genuine relationships and offering value in return. Start with one or two of these strategies that feel most comfortable, and gradually expand your efforts as you gain confidence. Your network truly can become one of your most valuable professional assets, opening doors to opportunities, knowledge, and relationships that will serve you throughout your career. So get out there (or log on), make that introduction, and watch your professional community grow.
Want to explore more opportunities to expand your network? Check out our blog post on Board Membership – one of the best ways to build your professional network and enhance your professional career.
