There’s no manual for climbing the ladder at your job, and everyone does it differently. But, there’s one thing in common most career-driven professionals do to help — they network.
Networking is crucial to career development. Every day, you should be thinking about how to make meaningful connections with leaders in your workspace and your industry at large.
If you have the time and can afford the expense, pencil-in any event leaders will attend, in and out of the office.
It’s about who you know
Leaders are in a position to make recommendations that help careers blossom. Word-of-mouth advertising is extremely effective for generating interest in your work, so you’ll want to tactfully get these leaders’ attention.
If you can demonstrate solid, consistent work, leaders are more likely to recommend you to their colleagues.
You have the power to generate a little buzz around yourself and what you can offer to leaders in your industry if you go to events, shake a few hands and offer to showcase some work.
Follow the leaders
Who in your industry or company inspires you? Why do they inspire you?
Without coming across as needy or desperate, try to get close to those you look up to. If a leader puts out a call for assistance, answer the call — offer your time. That will show your eagerness to solve problems, be part of a team and work hard.
You’ll start making impressions, and the higher-ups will notice. And if you are dependable, they’re more likely to recommend you to their colleagues.
Ask questions and own your attitude.
No one likes overconfidence in the workplace but we all have a little self-pride.
The truth, though, is likely you know a lot less than you think you do, and that’s OK. Asking questions of leaders will show them you’re eager to learn, you’re genuine, and that you have a positive attitude and keen interest in what you do.
Leaders are busy, so pick your questions carefully, and only ask them at appropriate times. Too many questions make you look too eager at best or downright annoying at worst. Too few at the right times and you’ll lose out on the opportunities for leaders to get to know you.
You’ll have to strike a delicate balance.
The bottom line
Networking is an essential aspect of career development. You want leaders to vouch for your work ethic, attitude, eagerness to learn and confidence.
Make a little time each day to ask leaders questions or shake their hands at events whenever they pop up. At the end of the day, networking costs a little of your time, but the payoff is well worth it.
