What are the most important networking strategies for a Disaster Recovery professional?

1 Identify your goals and needs

Before you start networking, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and what you need from your network. Do you want to learn new skills, find new opportunities, or get support for your projects? Do you need access to information, funding, or equipment? Having specific and realistic goals and needs will help you focus your networking efforts and target the right people and organizations.

2 Research and join relevant networks

One of the best ways to expand your network is to join existing networks that are relevant to your field and interests. These can include professional associations, online forums, social media groups, newsletters, podcasts, webinars, or events. Research and follow the networks that match your goals and needs, and participate actively by asking questions, sharing insights, and offering feedback. This will help you establish your credibility, learn from others, and discover new opportunities.

3 Create and maintain relationships

Networking is not a one-time activity, but a continuous process of creating and maintaining relationships. You need to invest time and effort to follow up with your contacts, keep in touch, and provide value. You can do this by sending emails, making phone calls, meeting in person, or connecting on social media. You can also offer help, referrals, recommendations, or endorsements to your contacts, and show appreciation and recognition for their support. By doing this, you will build trust, rapport, and loyalty with your network.

4 Collaborate and cooperate

Another key networking strategy is to collaborate and cooperate with your network on projects, initiatives, or challenges that are relevant to your field and goals. You can do this by joining or forming teams, committees, task forces, or working groups, or by initiating or participating in joint ventures, partnerships, or alliances. By collaborating and cooperating, you will enhance your skills, expand your reach, and increase your impact.

5 Evaluate and improve your network

Finally, you need to evaluate and improve your network regularly to ensure that it is meeting your goals and needs, and that it is diverse, balanced, and resilient. You can do this by assessing the quality, quantity, and diversity of your contacts, the value and satisfaction that you get from your network, and the challenges and gaps that you face. You can also seek feedback, advice, or mentorship from your network, and identify areas for improvement or growth. By evaluating and improving your network, you will ensure that it is relevant, effective, and sustainable.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?