You want to expand your professional network. How can you connect with people outside your organization?

1 Join online communities

One of the easiest ways to network with people outside your organization is to join online communities that are relevant to your interests and goals. For example, you can find groups on social media platforms, forums, blogs, podcasts, or newsletters that focus on culinary topics, trends, challenges, or best practices. By participating in these communities, you can share your insights, ask questions, learn from others, and discover potential collaborators or mentors.

2 Attend virtual events

Another way to network with people outside your organization is to attend virtual events that are related to your field or industry. For example, you can sign up for webinars, workshops, conferences, or panels that offer valuable information, skills, or inspiration for culinary managers. By attending these events, you can stay updated on the latest developments, interact with speakers and attendees, and showcase your expertise and enthusiasm.

3 Reach out to alumni or former colleagues

A third way to network with people outside your organization is to reach out to alumni or former colleagues who have similar backgrounds or experiences as you. For example, you can reconnect with people who graduated from the same culinary school, worked at the same restaurant, or completed the same training program as you. By reaching out to these people, you can rekindle old connections, exchange feedback, support each other, and explore new opportunities.

4 Volunteer for a cause

A fourth way to network with people outside your organization is to volunteer for a cause that you care about or that aligns with your values. For example, you can offer your time, skills, or resources to a local food bank, a community kitchen, a culinary education program, or a sustainability initiative. By volunteering for a cause, you can make a positive impact, meet like-minded people, and demonstrate your passion and commitment.

6 Follow up and stay in touch

A sixth way to network with people outside your organization is to follow up and stay in touch with the people you meet or interact with. For example, you can send a thank-you note, a feedback request, a resource recommendation, or a congratulations message to the people who helped you, taught you, or impressed you. By following up and staying in touch, you can maintain your relationships, show your appreciation, and create opportunities for future collaboration or communication.

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?