What do you do if you want to network with professionals in a different field?

“When the student is ready, the teacher appears.” When networking with professionals in a different field other than yours, I have learned that being willing to seek with curiosity is a magical approach. Full disclaimer, I would recommend this approach with everything in life, but especially when learning about something, or someone, for the first time. There are amazing individuals who genuinely cannot wait to mentor you, if you’re humble enough to realize you have something to learn. Make no mistake, we all started from zero ;) 3 things I would do: (1) Research industry articles (2) Join LinkedIn networking groups in that field/industry (3) Follow thought leaders in that field/industry Be a sponge, and lead with curiosity.

Here's what you can do: 1. Research: Start by researching the industry or field you're interested in. Understand its key players, trends, and current topics. 2. Identify Relevant Events: Look for events, conferences, workshops, or seminars related to that field where you can meet professionals. 3. Join Online Communities: Engage in online forums, LinkedIn groups, or social media communities related to the field. Participate in discussions and connect with professionals.

One of the most effective ways to network with professionals from a different field is by attending industry events. Conferences, seminars, and workshops provide a platform to meet and engage with experts in a natural setting. Make sure to prepare an elevator pitch that succinctly explains who you are and why you're interested in their field. Being able to articulate your value and interest clearly can lead to more meaningful conversations and connections.

Participate in networking gatherings tailored to your industry, which can be either virtual or in-person. These gatherings encompass meetups, conferences, and workshops specific to your field.

Something magical happens when you attend events that different from your chosen field. If you are willing to stay humble, open, and curious, the conversations with complete strangers feel so much more engaging. Here’s 3 ways to make the most of attending events with professionals who are in a different field than yours (or a similar one): (1) What’s happening now? – Research what is top of mind in the industry, the challenge currently facing it, and what the thought leaders are sharing about. (2) 2 Ears, 1 Mouth – Use this proportion when meeting others; you’ll be amazed how effortless connecting can become. (3) Follow-up – If you are fortunate to meet others beyond the business card, follow up and follow along their journey.

My dad was a maestro of any room, and I ended up discovering that he wasn’t comfortable doing so. He used to keep a large tube sock of quarters in his car so that he could always be in position to check in on his customers at a moments’ notice. He cared about the relationships he built and saw immense value in networking with others.?? If you don’t have a sock of quarters to begin networking, start here on LinkedIn. Opportunities to create with posts, engage within small (or large) groups of other professionals who nerd-out in the topics you like to nerd-out about, immerse yourself in webinars and LinkedIn Learning courses, or simply read industry articles, this world is your oyster ?? - right at your fingertips. My favorite platform.??

Connect with professionals in your target industry, actively interact with their posts, become part of pertinent groups, and initiate personalized conversations conveying your eagerness to gain insights from their expertise.

I've found posting consumer targeted articles relevant to my industry very helpful. For example: Do you know what a PPP loan is and how it can help you? Chances are, if you aren't directly related to or fully informed about the financial services industry, you don't. My thought process is in presenting content with impact in mind. If I share information that could benefit someone else, then I've accomplished my goal.

Networking is a two-way street. Don't just approach it like a one-sided vending machine (taking advice, connections). Think of yourself as a valuable trade offer! Bonus "next level" tip: Don't be shy about your offerings! Highlight your transferable skills and unique experiences in your conversations. People appreciate genuine contributions, and this will help you build stronger connections that can lead to future opportunities.

Imagine networking with others with the only intention of offering value? Whether you are part of that chosen field or not, your unique skills and passion can always be of help and support to others. Here’s my take on 3 ways to offer value when networking with others: (1) Connect 4 – Identify 3 other professionals in a given field of work that could help support the goals that professionals in that field are aiming for and connect them together. (2) Assist – Demonstrate value by offering to collaborate on mutually beneficial projects, or better yet, projects that would only benefit them. (3) Be the example – Share examples, tools, and resources from your industry that have the potential to be leveraged in theirs.

When it comes to following up after a networking event, continue to foster those connections by adding value to their lives, not just yours. Here’s my take on 3 ways to do that: (1) Thank you – The lost art of saying thank you for simply having an engaging conversation with someone. Personalize your message with specific insights you learned while meeting them; expressing gratitude for taking the time wouldn’t hurt either. (2) Sharing is caring – Continue to periodically share other relevant resources, articles, tools, or connections that they could find useful. (3) Stay engaged – Set up time to meet for coffee periodically, or virtually if needed. Building relationships takes time, and professional ones are not any different.

Delve into their industry, inquire about their expertise, and demonstrate authentic curiosity in their endeavors to cultivate valuable connections.

“The opposite of networking is not working.” If you want to network with professionals in a different field, the starting point is staying curious. Do you remember what it was like before you knew anything and were open to learning something new? This is where you can apply those experiences! Here’s my take on 3 ways to do that: (1) Get Active – Sign up for local industry networking events in your area. (2) Get Virtual – Online networking and career platforms such as LinkedIn are fantastic ways of getting to know others, especially in a different field. Join LinkedIn groups where you’ll learn every day! (3) Get Informed – Reach out to others in that field and see if they would be open to knowledge sharing or informational interviews.

One thing I have always found to be helpful when networking with professionals in other fields to have random informational interviews with all kinds of people. Instead of talking with others about the weather or news, I like to ask questions about career development or fulfillment. It truly is a gateway to fascinating conversations and opens the door to what other people’s experiences are all about. I am more concerned about the human being than the human doing. Yes, I am a nerd about it, don’t judge me.??