How to Level Up Your Career With Smart & Strategic Networking Tactics

Networking isn’t just about the connections you meet but about the opportunities it provides. Networking doesn’t just help you start a career but also enables you to find and secure a job you can succeed in. Around 70% of jobs are not advertised, meaning these connections are more important than you think. Finding new in-person connections in our day and age can be harder as the rise of social media continues, but don’t let this stop you from finding like-minded people and opportunities.

Focusing at Networking Events

If you have been invited or are attending a networking event, you may think it’s necessary to speak to as many people as humanly possible, but this isn’t always the case. Think quality over quantity. Rushing around the room having quick conversations can be pointless. How can so many people have a lasting impact? It’s best to scout the room; if you have people in mind you’d like to talk to, start with them. Ask yourself, will you benefit from speaking to this person? What can you offer in return? Is there specific knowledge you’d like to gain from them? Have an imaginary checklist in your head. It’s also good to speak to people you may not know anything about too. Creating lasting and important connections is the key.

Strategic Tactics

1.   Have Something to Offer

The first thing we think about when networking is what can I gain? Try to flip this and think about what you can offer someone else. Do you have experience in a job role or an interview tip you can offer? These kinds of conversations can spark new ideas and tend to be much more memorable.

2.   Maximise Your Current Circle

Before seeking out new contacts, start by nurturing the connections you already have. Often, your existing network holds untapped potential. Strengthening these relationships can open doors to new opportunities or collaborations. Reach out regularly, show genuine interest in others’ goals and offer value where you can. One way to do this is through LinkedIn by commenting on and reacting to posts. You can also send direct messages through social media, such as links to articles and videos they might find useful and invitations to relevant webinars.

3.   Going to Co-Working Spaces

Co-working office spaces offer professional amenities, like high-speed Wi-Fi and meeting rooms, and are used by multiple companies and businesspeople. These provide the perfect chance to network and meet other professionals. Many co-working spaces also host events, talks, and workshops where you can make new connections.

4.   Tell a Memorable Story About Yourself

Introducing yourself by your job title can be forgettable for professionals networking with multiple people in a short period of time. Plan something to say to make you more memorable. This could be what you do and what you care about in the work world, or a success story.

5.   Send a Short Follow up

24-48 hours after meeting someone, send them a short follow up message. This shows that the interaction was important to you and means they’re more likely to remember you. At the same time, keep the follow up message short and low-pressure to avoid being too pushy. For example, you could mention something specific from your conversation or say thank you. 

Be Active In Your Space

Creating a positive image and building your personal brand is one of the most important pieces of career progression. Using apps like LinkedIn can help achieve this. Keep your details and achievements up to date, as this can help others understand more about who you are and potentially open the door to offer you opportunities. Build your professional portfolio as much as you can. You could do this through speaking at events (or hosting your own), taking on new projects, and freelancing.

Final Note

Yes, networking is about connecting with a wide range of people, but it’s also about building meaningful connections. You want people to remember you, not just see you as a random follower on LinkedIn. Through using the right tactics, you can turn interactions into amazing opportunities.

Attic is a boutique London recruitment agency specialising in private household, PA, and secretarial roles. We’re renowned for our bespoke, confidential service, and match skills, experience, and personalities to ensure the perfect fit. Find out more about what we do and how you can benefit from our services by looking at our website.

Written by: Rosie Buckley