What do you do if your networking strategies aren't working in late career?

When goals aren't going as planned, it's an opportunity to reassess and adapt. I'd take a step back, analyze what's not working, adjust the plan if needed, and keep moving forward. It's all about learning and growing from the experience.

It can be frustrating when your networking strategies don't seem to be working, especially later in your career. Here are some adjustments you can consider to make your networking more effective: Shift Your Focus: From "Getting" to "Giving": Instead of solely focusing on what you can get out of the network (a new job), transition to a mindset of offering value and building genuine connections. Share your expertise, offer mentorship, or connect others within your network. Quality Over Quantity: Don't just attend every event or connect with everyone on LinkedIn. Target your efforts towards building high-quality connections with people in your field or those who can genuinely support your career goals.

Networking is about building meaningful relationships and offering value. First of all, you need to reevaluate your goals. Update your online presence and expand your network by connecting with people outside your usual circles. Invest in deepening existing connections rather than solely focusing on new ones. Engage with professional forums, groups and social media platforms and the most crucial aspect is to stay positive and persistent throughout the journey.

Leverage Existing Strengths: Highlight Your Experience: Your seniority and experience are valuable assets. Offer to mentor younger professionals or participate in speaking engagements to showcase your expertise. Reactivate Old Ties: Reconnect with former colleagues, classmates, or business associates. You'd be surprised how often these connections can be revitalized and lead to new opportunities. Adapt Your Approach: Online Presence: Ensure your online profiles (LinkedIn, professional website) are up-to-date and showcase your accomplishments and skills. Informational Interviews: Instead of directly asking for a job, conduct informational interviews to learn about different roles, companies, and industry trends. This build relationships

Industry Events: Attend industry events, conferences, or workshops relevant to your field. These provide opportunities to meet new people, learn about industry trends, and potentially connect with hiring managers. Stay Positive and Persistent: Building a strong network takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if results aren't immediate. Be patient, persistent, and keep building meaningful connections. Here are some additional tips specific to late-career networking: Target Decision-Makers: Focus on connecting with hiring managers, recruiters, or key decision-makers in your target companies. Volunteer or Join Boards: Volunteering your expertise with industry associations or non-profit boards allows you to give back.