How can you build a strong support network as a social worker?

Develop Your Network: Make the necessary efforts to keep up those connections.. Schedule a regular time to stay in contact with your network, either in person or digitally.

Needs are important but, understanding and recognizing your inherent value is a foundational step in personal and professional support growth. Once you comprehend your unique strengths and what you bring to the table, the next step is to generously share that value with others. Whether it's expertise in school-based services or insights into grief, freely giving your knowledge fosters organic connections and contributes positively to relationships. By providing value in a relationship, you not only build connections quickly but also experience a sense of fulfillment. It's a reciprocal process – being open to both giving and receiving value enriches relationships and creates a supportive network.

Take time and identify a few strength (highs) or weaknesses (lows). There may be others, trivial concerns or preferences you may be uncomfortable. There are no perfect methods or timeline, and in every season, you may wish to dive in and readjust your expectations, yearning or reality. While every worker hope to be a guardian angel and cases be perfect, in social work, the playing field is largely dependent on both nature and nurture, and crisis may suddenly occur. Be open to surprises and mishaps. Lastly, share with your supervisor if there is a family situation, a child behaviour or medical diagnosis that is serious, so that agency can be aware and support you. Best wishes. Semper fidelis

Building a strong support network as a social worker involves actively engaging with peers, mentors, and professionals in your field. Attend industry conferences, workshops, and local community events to connect with like-minded individuals. Join professional associations and online forums to share experiences and resources. Seek mentorship and offer to mentor others. Foster collaborative relationships within your workplace and community organizations. Regularly communicate and exchange support with your network, creating a mutually beneficial environment for professional growth and emotional resilience.

Seeking a mentor is indeed crucial for personal and professional growth. In my experience, many of my mentors have emerged organically through seeking supervision or guidance when facing challenging questions. One particular mentor, who has evolved into a close friend, was a colleague from 15 years ago. Our mentorship began when I sought her expertise in dealing with younger children. Over time, our relationship transformed into a dynamic exchange of ideas and theories. We prioritize regular walks, providing a space to share insights and support each other. Mentorship, for me, extends beyond learning—it's about mutual support, creating a valuable network for personal and professional development.

Utilizing LinkedIn as a social worker offers benefits. Networking with peers, joining relevant groups, and showcasing expertise on the platform fosters professional connections and knowledge exchange. By following organizations and influencers, we can stay informed about industry trends and learning opportunities. Engaging in peer support through conversations and seeking advice from fellow social workers contributes to a supportive online community.