Activating Your Network

What if I told you that you are the company you keep—professionally speaking? Many of us will encounter and befriend coworkers and peers over time in our careers. If you’re lucky, you may even land a mentor or two. But what if I told you that these friendships can be incredible accelerators in your professional journey?

A few years ago, I chose to embark on a career in the tech startup space as an HR professional. Through each transition, it was not only because I had the credentials, but also because I was connected with peers and/or managers who seemingly vouched for my work ethic and credibility. My connections helped catapult me into roles with larger scopes and significantly increased my compensation (each time, hello!). It’s time to tap into your network. While you might be thinking this is a bit disingenuous because you need a job, it is actually expected and very common.

Here are a few ways to do that without making it extremely awkward.

First, leverage your professional network by accessing platforms like LinkedIn, Meetup and Slack groups to name a few. If you’re not signed up for these sites, you need to be. Begin connecting with old friends and colleagues by sending them messages and connecting requests. Then, send cold outreach messages asking if they’d be willing to chat over coffee and catch up, or you could be more direct and state that you’re looking for new opportunities and would love to learn more about their organization. This will at least get the conversation going and ignite your networking power!

Meetup is another networking platform, offering you the opportunity to engage with professionals over a coffee, united by a common field of interest. If you lean towards introversion, you can arrive armed with your laptop or notepad, ready to absorb insights. Typically, these events feature guest speakers and enthusiasts generously sharing free information and invaluable industry insights. To truly maximize these occasions, it's recommended to connect with a handful of attendees. Unlike a conventional job fair where resume distribution is the norm, here you're encouraged to have your elevator pitch at the ready for genuine conversations.

There are more people willing to help you than not. If you’re like me—a true go-getter who doesn't need anyone to help, a strong woman, an even stronger black woman—you may be thinking, “I don’t want all these people in my business.” Well, this is where we're at. In fact, there is power in connecting with people who have different experiences and perspectives. This will give you more insights and allow you to grow professionally and personally. You’ve just got to do it! In fact, that’s what you'll hear me shout from the mountaintops every darn time…JUST DO IT!

Stay Inspired,

Eboni