What are the most effective ways to network with colleagues in different departments?

Participate in company-wide events, eg workshops provides natural opportunities for networking. Leverage internal communication platforms like company chat tools to actively engage in discussions, sharing insights and contributing to conversations. Volunteering for cross-functional projects and meetings allows you to work alongside colleagues from various departments, building practical experience and facilitating connections. Attend social events and informal gatherings to connect with colleagues on a personal level, fostering relationships beyond professional boundaries. Join or create employee interest groups to connect with like-minded colleagues. Personally, I find lunching with colleagues from different departments also helps.

I think the best way to network within a company is to be genuine and have NO goal, avoiding networking solely for immediate gains. Build trust and be helpful, creating relationships that may benefit in the future.

Clearly define your networking objectives. Are you seeking cross-functional collaboration, information exchange, or mentorship? Understanding your goals shapes your approach. Then you need the right system for networking in place; what tools will you use, when will you use them, how you will use them? what's the SOP involved?

I find the below channel as most effective 1. Company gatherings/event/Party 2. Volunteering for company related event/ cause

the best internal communication and collaboration across teams is monday.com, asana, slack etc... Explore diverse communication channels. Attend cross-departmental meetings, utilize internal collaboration platforms, and participate in company-wide events. Tailor your approach to the preferences of colleagues in different departments.

In my experience, initiating conversations often begins with genuine curiosity. Ask about their projects, share insights, and express interest in their work. Sustain the dialogue by providing updates on your projects and acknowledging their achievements.

From my experience, the most effective ways to network with colleagues in different departments include initiating and sustaining the conversation. By initiating the conversation, we can start by introducing ourself, explaining our purpose, and expressing our appreciation for their time and attention. We can then ask open-ended questions, listen actively, and share relevant information or insights. To sustain the conversation, we should follow up regularly, provide updates or feedback, and offer support or assistance. Additionally, attending networking events and conferences, joining professional organisations, and leveraging social media platforms can help expand our network and deepen our professional connections.

One way I have found to build trust and rapport is to understand the value of utility, both yours and those from other teams with whom you wish to build a working relationship. This does not have to be a solely selfish or inward-focused endeavor; it can be a primarily outward-focused process where you seek to add value based on your specific strengths and skills. It can also be helpful to take note of your colleague's varying skills and proficiencies. Often, the bridge towards finding common ground and developing trust with other team members within an organization is an appreciation of each person's unique strengths.

In my opinion, networking with colleagues in different departments can be an effective way to build relationships and expand our professional network. One way to do this is by asking for recommendations and introductions to colleagues who align with our interests. Additionally, organising or attending events, webinars, and workshops together can foster collaboration and create opportunities for networking. Connecting with colleagues on external social media platforms can reinforce our professional relationships and explore new opportunities. By leveraging these strategies, we can effectively build and expand our network with colleagues in different departments.

I actually ask my who wants to build a strong network? What is the motif behind this attitude? One may need to know more about what you do, what your plans and objectives are, how do you handle the issues? Therefore, it will be good to tell them about your objectives, your priorities in a structured way together with your colleagues. I'd propose to organize informal coffee/lunch meetings where you can answer their questions.

I totally agree with you. However, it is very important to understand the priorities and goals of others and to meet on common ground. It will be valuable to determine which priority is more valuable for the organisation and to direct the workforce effectively.

Being an interesting person in the room is an added advantage; it naturally attracts people to you, making them more inclined to befriend and network with you.