The Power of Networking: Building Professional Relationships

Let’s talk about something that can truly empower your career: networking. Now, before you roll your eyes and think, “Ugh, not another networking chat,” hear me out. Networking isn’t just about awkward small talk at a conference or schmoozing your way through a Zoom meeting. It’s about building genuine relationships, opening doors, and creating opportunities for growth—both personally and professionally. It's a powerful tool that can inspire and motivate you to reach new heights in your career.

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If you’ve been feeling like your career could use a boost, or you’re ready to build more meaningful professional connections, Nitalittlemore Coaching is here to help. We offer coaching tailored to women who want to advance their careers, develop a strong network, and build confidence in their professional relationships. Ready to step up your game? Book a discovery call today, and let’s start building the network that will propel you to the next level!

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Why Networking Matters

Let’s get into why networking is so important. Studies show that building professional relationships is crucial for career advancement. According to research from the Harvard Business Review, up to 85% of job placements come through networking (Petriglieri, 2019). It’s not just about finding a new job, though—networking can lead to mentorship opportunities, collaborations, business partnerships, and a wealth of knowledge from others in your field.

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When you think of networking as relationship-building rather than transactional, it becomes less intimidating and more about making connections that align with your goals and values. And guess what? It’s not about collecting as many business cards as possible. It’s about nurturing relationships, offering mutual support and growth over time.

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How to Build Genuine Professional Relationships

Okay, so how do you actually build these relationships? It starts with being authentic. People can sense when you’re being genuine versus just trying to “get something” from them. Think of networking as a long-term investment in your career—and the relationships you build should be rooted in trust and authenticity.

Here are a few ways to get started:

• Be Intentional About Who You Connect With: Not every connection needs to be strategic, but having a clear idea of the types of professionals you want to meet—whether they’re in your industry, have the expertise you admire, or share similar goals—can help you be more purposeful in your networking.

• Provide Value First: Before asking for favors or help, consider what value you can offer. Whether it’s sharing knowledge, connecting people in your network, or simply offering support, making sure the relationship is mutually beneficial will help it grow.

• Follow Up: Building relationships doesn’t end with the first meeting. Following up with a thoughtful email, scheduling a coffee chat, or sending a quick message to check in goes a long way in maintaining and nurturing the connection.

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Networking Online vs. In-Person

We live in a digital world where networking happens online and in person. According to Forbes, online networking, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn, is just as crucial as in-person events (Kador, 2020). In fact, online platforms often provide a wider reach, giving you access to professionals you might not meet at a local networking event. That said, in-person interactions can feel more personal and lead to quicker, deeper connections.

So, what’s the best approach? The key is to strike a balance between the two:

• Online Networking: LinkedIn is a powerful tool for professional connections, but don’t just hit “Connect” and call it a day. Engage with people by commenting on their posts, sending personalized messages, and joining groups or forums in your industry.

• In-Person Networking: Aim for quality over quantity if you attend a conference or event. Instead of trying to meet everyone, focus on making a few meaningful connections. And remember, networking doesn’t have to happen at a formal event. Meeting people at a workshop, volunteering, or even during casual social events can be just as valuable.

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The Role of Mentorship

One of the most impactful relationships you can build through networking is a mentorship. Finding a mentor can provide you with invaluable guidance, insider knowledge, and support as you navigate your career. Research published in the Journal of Vocational Behavior shows that mentorship is linked to career success, including promotions, salary increases, and job satisfaction (Allen et al., 2004).

But here’s the thing: mentorship relationships don’t just happen—you need to seek them out and be intentional. Start by identifying someone whose career path or expertise you admire. Reach out, be clear about what you’re looking for in a mentor, and explain how you would value their guidance.

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Overcoming Networking Nerves

Let’s be honest —networking can feel super intimidating, especially if you’re an introvert or just not a fan of “working the room.” But it’s important to remember that you don’t need to be outgoing or extroverted to network successfully. It’s about quality connections, not the quantity of people you speak to. If large events feel overwhelming, try starting with one-on-one coffee chats or small group settings.

And hey, if the thought of networking still makes you anxious, that’s where Nitalittlemore Coaching comes in! We can work on building your confidence, refining your networking strategy, and helping you feel more comfortable in these spaces. Whether it's through role-playing to practice networking scenarios or providing personalized tips for your specific industry, we're here to help. Trust me, with a little practice, it will get easier.

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Final Thoughts

Networking doesn’t have to feel like a chore—it’s an opportunity to build meaningful, supportive relationships that help you grow both personally and professionally. Whether you’re reaching out online or connecting in person, focus on creating authentic relationships that align with your goals. And as you do, you'll find that networking is not just about career growth, but also about personal growth, a journey that's exciting and full of potential.

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And if you’re looking to take your networking game to the next level, Nitalittlemore Coaching is here to help! Let’s work together to develop a strategy that works for you and enables you to create the professional connections that will propel you forward. During the discovery call, we'll discuss your current networking challenges, your career goals, and how our coaching can support you. Book a discovery call today, and let’s get started!

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Until next time, keep connecting, keep thriving, and keep shining! 🌟

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References

Allen, T. D., Eby, L. T., Poteet, M. L., Lentz, E., & Lima, L. (2004). Career benefits associated with mentoring for protégés: A meta-analysis. Journal of Vocational Behavior, 65(3), 487-502.

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Kador, J. (2020). Online networking is the future of networking. Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com

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Petriglieri, G. (2019). Networking for people who hate networking. Harvard Business Review. Retrieved from https://hbr.org

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