Power Up Your Network in 2024!

Feeling a bit lost or disconnected in your career? Like, when you finally take a moment to catch your breath and look around, do you think “Is this all there is?” Or “I don't know what I want to do next but it ain’t this!”

It's a completely normal experience, especially for women at this career stage. Many of us find it challenging to expand our network or feel unsure of how to tap into its potential. Let's tackle this head-on with advice designed just for you.

1️⃣ Problem 1: "I feel out of touch/out of the loop after a career break."

Taking time out of the workforce happens, whether it's to raise a family or tackle personal circumstances. But stepping back in can feel intimidating. First, remember you have valuable skills and experience.

Here's how to reconnect and update your network:

➡️ Reconnect with Purpose
Reach out to former colleagues and see what they're up to. You can send them a quick message via LinkedIn or on any platform/email you’ve stayed connected with them. It's a great way to get updated on industry trends.

Here is a sample script you can use:

✅ "Hi [Name], it's been a while! Hope you're doing well. I've been following your career, and it looks like you're doing some interesting things at [Company]. Would love to catch up and hear more about what you're working on."

✅ "Hi [Name], remember that conversation we had about [shared interest related to your industry]? I came across this article that made me think of you. [Link to article]. Any chance you'd be up for a quick chat to discuss industry trends?"

✅ "Hi [Name], huge congrats on the promotion/new role! [Company] is lucky to have you. I'm curious to hear more about your exciting work there. Do you have time for a quick coffee or virtual catch-up sometime?"

➡️ Explore Groups
Join online communities and local groups geared towards women re-entering the workforce. LinkedIn and Facebook are a great place to start.

➡️ Find a "Return-to-Work" Buddy
Networking is way more fun with an accountability partner. Find someone in a similar situation for mutual support and accountability. You can join Facebook or LinkedIn groups that tackle the topic of returning to work. Chances are, you are gonna find someone there. But, please make sure you’re cautious. Examine their profile to avoid scammers. 

2️⃣ Problem 2: "I don't know where to start."

If you're overwhelmed with the whole concept of networking, let's break it down into simple steps:

➡️ Define Your Goals
What do you want your network to do for you? Help you learn an industry? Make connections for a new gig? Clarity makes targeted networking easier.

➡️ Break Down Those Goals Into Small Actions

Set small goals to prevent being overwhelmed. Examples: Send one reconnection email a week. Send 5 LinkedIn connection requests a week.

➡️ Think Beyond Big Events
Networking is as simple as informational interviews with people in interesting roles. It's joining a Facebook or LinkedIn group and genuinely contributing or commenting on others’ posts.

➡️ Quality over Quantity
Focus on building a few strong relationships at a time. Those connections will lead to others organically.

3️⃣ Problem 3: "I worry about appearing too pushy."

It's natural to feel awkward about reaching out. Here's the shift that makes it less daunting:

➡️ It's About Exchange
Offer value to others first. Share an article, connect them with someone helpful, or genuinely compliment their work.

➡️ Ask Smart Questions
Instead of "pick your brain", ask "What's one trend keeping you up at night in your industry?" You learn, they feel valued.

➡️ Follow-up Isn't a Dirty Word
After an interaction, send a quick thank-you. It's polite and leaves the door open for future connection.

Keep at It!

Networking isn't a magic bullet, it's a skill developed over time. If you're feeling a bit awkward at first, that's absolutely normal. You have unique experiences and insights, and there are people out there eager to connect with someone just like you. Keep building those relationships, one interaction at a time.

Remember, you have more allies than you might think! Embrace the chance to build a community that supports your career journey—it can change everything.

Good luck!

Lauren

P.S.

Would you like to explore how I can support your career goals? I offer a free 20-minute consultation to answer your questions and discuss how my services can help you achieve your objectives. To get a better idea of the topics we might cover, you can check out common questions, view my career packages, and book a session through this link:

https://www.tychecoaching.com/frequently-asked-questions