What do you do if you're a team leader seeking networking opportunities?

Although online platforms and networking through these platforms (like LinkedIn) have altered the dynamics of how we network with like-minded professionals, still the charm of meeting your peers and seniors F2F in physical events is unparalleled. Not only meeting such folks in person gives you an advantage of impressing them with your demeanor, it also enables them to closely look at your personality and get a perspective of your knowledge and persona. Moreover, chatting over a cup of coffee with leaders whom you have idolised and watched multiple times paves way for some really insightful discussions and deliberations on better ways to exhibit leadership qualities. Afterall, it is always stupendous to learn from the best in industry.

I believe joining new group forces you to speak to different people who work in different industries, but have common goals as you. You introduce yourself and over the time you build a good relationship. So when they see an opportunity that fits you they will contact you.

It's an era that represents social media and social networking. Gone are the days when you had to associate yourself with organisations / platforms that offer opportunities to physically network with like minded people. Although this is a fruitful medium but one which comes with its own limitations such as it was almost impossible to connect with people from other geographies. However, harnessing the strength of online professional platforms such as LinkedIn has eliminated this shortcoming. With scores of brilliant and outstanding professionals on the platform, it is always easier to connect with such folks and engage with them through sharing your knowledge and getting a piece of their mind. This helps you to sharpen your leadership skills

Mentors are great when it comes to seeking network opportunity, because they understand your goals better. They speak with you on a monthly bases to see if there is any adjustments that needs to be done.

Identifying mentors, whether in the field or not, is an excellent opportunity to expand networking and personal development based on self-knowledge. A mentor, when prepared, is able to share experiences and insights, supporting the development of points for improvement. consider that a safe environment is essential for this to happen.

Definitely, networking doesn't means just having perspective of other person but such associations and collaborations are equally helpful if the communication is two sided. Always make a habit of sharing your perspective with Industry leaders whenever you collaborate or network with them. It not only improves your image in your network but also helps the senior folks to give you intelligent and introspective feedback in return.