Here's how you can tap into your existing network for new career opportunities and professional growth.

I believe that "If you are not networking, you are not working." Whether you are actively searching for a new job or not, it’s essential to keep your network alive, and LinkedIn is highly recommended for this purpose. Reach out to former #colleagues and #mentors, share your career goals, and offer insights or help to stay engaged. Attend industry events and participate in online discussions to remain visible. Networking isn’t just about seeking #opportunities, it’s about building genuine relationships, and being active within your professional #community ensures you're top of mind when opportunities arise.

I start by reaching out to former colleagues with a genuine interest in their well-being and professional updates. For instance, I might send a message asking how they've been since our last project together, sharing something new about my own journey. I focus on rebuilding our relationship first, not jumping straight into career discussions. Once we've re-established a connection, I can naturally share my aspirations and ask about opportunities. This approach adds value to both sides, strengthening our relationship while opening doors for professional growth.

How to leverage your existing connections for career growth: 1. Audit your network: Identify valuable contacts by industry and role 2. Reconnect: Reach out with personalised messages and updates 3. Offer value: Provide help or share insights before asking for anything 4. Attend events: Meet contacts face-to-face while expanding your network 5. Informational interviews: Have quick chats with those in roles you're interested in 6. Engage online: Comment and share to stay visible 7. Join groups: Participate in industry forums and meetups 8. Get a mentor: Look for mentors in your network 9. Be clear on your goals: Let your contacts know what you're aiming for 10. Follow up: Keep consistent communication with key connections Be consistent!!

??Tapping into your network is a key strategy for career opportunities and growth. Reconnect with people you haven't spoken to in a long time. Rekindle your relationship by offering them value, and sharing insights, articles, or industry news. Let your network know you're open to new opportunities; however, frame it as a mutual benefit they might have. Support their updates and show your presence where possible. Key insight: One's network can be a potential source of growth; however, it always requires engagement on one's part, and even more so, a value-based approach.

When reaching out, I focus on understanding where the other person is in their journey. Ask about their latest achievements or challenges this helps authentically rebuild rapport. Share insights or resources that might be helpful to them. Offering value upfront makes the conversation less about "taking" and more about mutual growth. Rebuilding a connection takes time. Rather than rushing into career discussions, I focus on nurturing the relationship first, knowing that opportunities will arise more naturally when the time is right. Once the relationship feels rekindled, I’m open about my career goals and aspirations. People are more willing to help when they feel the connection is sincere and built on trust.

It's common to reach out to former colleagues or friends when you're in need — like when looking for a new job. I do this too. But there’s an even better approach: nurture your relationships when you’re thriving, not just when you need help. I make it a habit to share my experiences, like courses I’m taking and the insights I’ve gained. If I come across a course that could benefit a colleague, I share it with them. Recently, I even offered a few free mentoring sessions to a colleague just starting her coaching journey. By giving back and supporting others, I trust that the support I need will come to me when the time is right. After all, we can achieve more, and do it faster, when we uplift each other.

I consider how I can contribute, whether it’s sharing insights from my industry or offering assistance with a project they’re working on. For example, if I reconnect with a former colleague who’s navigating a challenge I’ve experienced, I’ll offer advice or resources. This way, I show that I’m there to give, not just take. By creating a meaningful exchange, I strengthen our relationship, making them more likely to support my career growth in return. Offering value builds trust and deepens connections, making the relationship mutually beneficial.

Networking isn't just about taking; it's about building real relationships. Start by being genuinely interested in others. Ask questions, listen, and show that you care about their goals. Offer help when you can. It could be as simple as sharing a useful article or connecting them with someone who can assist. Always remember, the more you give, the more you receive. People are more likely to help you when they feel a genuine connection. ??

The best reframe is: "What can I do for you." Offering value upfront triggers reciprocity. It's important to give without expectation, but when the value is on point, it creates a desire to give back. So the question becomes, what problem can you solve for the person? Otherwise, what introduction can you add to their network. Judge the relationship based on the quality of person you're willing to introduce them to and vice versa.

In the world of business, social media is the "great equalizer" — it has leveled the playing field and allows anyone with WiFi connection to grow their influence, and succeed on their own terms. You just have to leverage this opportunity, by: - building an authentic, purpose-driven personal brand - posting quality content regularly (weekly or daily) - engaging with your audience and new people - support and learn from others side-by-side

I expand my network and deepen existing relationships. I make it a priority to show up at events relevant to my field, engaging with attendees and exchanging contact details. For example, after a workshop, I’ll follow up with someone I met by sending a message to continue the conversation or share a resource we discussed. These face-to-face interactions allow me to showcase my interests and skills while building meaningful connections. By staying in touch afterward, I keep the relationship warm, opening doors for future opportunities and collaboration.

Whatever topic, niche, or industry you'd like to participate in — there are probably countless existing groups and networks you can tap into. You just have to find them! You can use: - search engines embedded in social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook... - Google or Reddit - platforms like MeetUp or Facebook for in-person events ... and so on.

Another great way to expand your network is by joining professional groups. These can be found both online and offline. Participating in discussions, forums, or events within these communities helps you showcase your expertise and interest in your field. ?? Being active also shows that you’re committed, which can make you stand out to potential collaborators or employers. The more you engage, the more visible and attractive you become in your professional network. ??

I make it a point to follow up with a thoughtful thank-you message. For instance, if someone gives me advice or an introduction, I’ll update them later on how their help made a difference. This simple act of gratitude not only leaves a positive impression but keeps the connection warm. By staying in touch and showing appreciation, I maintain a strong relationship, keeping myself on their radar for future opportunities. Consistent follow-ups ensure that I stay connected and demonstrate that I value their support, creating a foundation for continued growth together.

Here's how you can tap into your existing network for new career opportunities and professional growth: -Start by reaching out to former colleagues, mentors, or industry contacts, and update them on your current goals. -Engage regularly with your network by sharing insights, offering help, or collaborating on projects. - Attend events, webinars, or conferences to reconnect and expand your circle. -Use social platforms like LinkedIn to stay visible and share your expertise. By maintaining active and genuine relationships, your network can become a valuable resource for discovering new opportunities and achieving professional growth.