You’re in a new job and need to establish your professional network. How can you do it quickly?

3 Reach out with value

When you contact someone for the first time, you need to make a good impression and show that you are not just asking for a favor or wasting their time. You need to demonstrate that you have something valuable to offer or share, such as relevant information, insights, feedback, or appreciation. You also need to be respectful, polite, and concise in your message, and clearly state your purpose and request. For example, you can ask for a brief phone call, a coffee meeting, or a referral to someone else.

4 Follow up and stay in touch

Networking is not a one-time event, but a continuous process of building and maintaining relationships. After you have made a contact, you need to follow up with a thank-you note, express your gratitude, and reiterate your interest or value proposition. You also need to stay in touch periodically, by sending updates, sharing useful resources, commenting on their posts, or congratulating them on their achievements. The goal is to keep the conversation going and show that you care and value the connection.

5 Expand your network

While it’s important to focus on quality over quantity, you also need to diversify and expand your network to reach more people and opportunities. You can do this by attending events, webinars, or workshops related to your field or industry, joining online communities or groups, volunteering for causes or projects, or asking for referrals from your existing contacts. The more you expose yourself to different perspectives and experiences, the more you can learn and grow.

6 Be authentic and generous

Networking is not only about what you can get, but also what you can give. You need to be authentic and genuine in your communication and interactions, and show interest and curiosity in others. You also need to be generous and helpful, by offering your support, advice, or feedback, or connecting others who can benefit from each other. Networking is a two-way street, and by being authentic and generous, you can build trust, credibility, and goodwill with your contacts.

7 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?