Getting started with networking events can feel daunting. Finding the right people can make a big difference in navigating your path. There’s no better time than the PRESENT to reach out and meet someone new. You never know who you may meet and what you might learn along the way. Make sure you read the “3 People you Need: How to Build a Professional Network from Scratch” to get started.
Many of you reached out asked, “How do I find the 3 people to LAUNCH my network?”
There are easy ways to expand your current connections from your office to your community. I’m an introvert, but I make sure to put myself out there and network. It can be draining, so don’t try to launch your network overnight. You can take it day by day. Don’t wait to invest time in yourself and take the leap!
Here’s 5 places I look to when it’s time to refresh my network:
1. Your Company
Your team and department should have a monthly networking event to meet others casually. If they don’t, this is a great opportunity for you to step up and shine. Bring people together whether it’s for a volunteer day or after-work social. You can even combine giving back to the community and networking. I’ve organized a happy hour at a local restaurant, that agreed to donate part of the proceeds to the Atlanta Children’s Shelter. That was one of my team’s favorite events!
2. Diversity & Inclusion Groups
Every company has diversity and inclusion groups that gather for networking events. You don’t have to be part of the minority group to participate. From dragon boat races to women’s leadership chats, these groups are a great way to connect with people in your company. If you don’t have many opportunities to connect and celebrate diversity in your organization, this is a great chance for you to take initiative and create them. Networking events that teach you about cultural traditions are easy to join and expand your perspective.
3. Alumni Network
Stay involved with your school! Find networking events through your alumni network. Whether you’re still physically near your alma mater or far away, there should be a chapter hosting events to raise money for the school. I’ve attended young alumni events, company alumni events, and lecture events on campus at Georgia Tech to stay connected. You can also look into providing virtual mentorship opportunities for current students through your alumni network. Giving back to your school that provided you the tools to be successful is a great way to launch your network.
4. Volunteer Networks
The most rewarding way to network is to volunteer your time. As a big sister for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, I have the opportunity to meet up and connect with fellow bigs. I’ve also joined the Young Professional Advisory Committee for the Atlanta Children’s Shelter, where we develop events to raise money and volunteer for the shelter. Find a cause you’re passionate about whether it’s children, animals, or even recycling. I’ve met people from around my city that I wouldn’t normally meet at work. Volunteering is a great way to practice personal development and step out of your comfort zone too.
5. Community Groups
You can also meet fellow professionals through community groups. These are informal networking events. In Atlanta, we have tennis teams, kickball leagues, recreational soccer, and more. There’s Facebook groups for people in the area looking to join certain sports teams. All you have to do is join a group and post that you’re a player looking for a team! It’s fun to connect with others while getting outside and exercising. You never know who you might meet or what conversation on the game sidelines will spark inspiration. I’ve met some of my best friends and the kindest people on my tennis teams.
I can’t wait to see you shine in your network!
There’s several other ways to start networking and connect with others. Although networking initially stresses my introvert self out, I know that I grow so much from learning from others. I actively focus on expanding and maintaining my network. It helps me gain advice for my current role and plan for my next promotion. My network helped me find my way to my master’s degree at MIT, my career changes, and my future steps!
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