NETWORKING FOR NEW COMERS

Networking is indeed a crucial component for success,

especially in professional sectors.

1. Understanding Network Science:

- Nodes and Connections:

In network science, individuals (nodes) are connected by relationships (edges). The more nodes and edges you have, the stronger and more valuable your network becomes.

- Strong and Weak Ties:

Strong ties are close connections (friends, family, close colleagues), while weak ties are acquaintances. Both are valuable; weak ties often lead to new opportunities as they connect different clusters.

2. Performance and Perception:

- Visibility:

Ensure your performance is visible within your network. Share achievements and milestones regularly.

- Engagement:

Actively engage with your network through comments, likes, and shares. This increases your visibility and shows you're an active participant.

3. Leveraging Social Media Algorithms:

- Regular Posting:

Share content regularly on LinkedIn and other platforms to keep your profile active.

- Engage with Influencers:

Connect and engage with influencers in your industry. Their interactions with your content can significantly boost your visibility.

- Content Variety:

Share a mix of personal achievements, industry news, and insights. This keeps your profile dynamic and interesting.

4. Maximizing Networking Events:

- Preparation:

Before attending events, research attendees and prepare a list of people you'd like to meet.

- Elevator Pitch:

Have a concise and compelling introduction about who you are and what you do.

- Follow-Up:

After the event, follow up with the people you met. Connect on LinkedIn and continue the conversation.

5. Building a Digital Platform:

- User-Friendly Interface:

Ensure your platform is easy to navigate and user-friendly.

- Community Features:

Incorporate features that encourage interaction, such as forums, discussion boards, and messaging.

- Resource Sharing:

Provide valuable resources, such as industry news, research, and networking tips.

For instance:

- FIABCI Canada:

I use this platform to connect with international real estate professionals and stay updated with global trends.

- Strides Mackenzie Health:

I leverage this role to connect with healthcare professionals and philanthropists, showing my commitment to my neighborhood.

- City of Vaughan DEI:

I use this position to engage with community leaders and advocate for diversity and inclusion in professional settings.

There are many other platforms I participate in and take responsibility for to expand my network,

care for others,

and reach out to more people.

As newcomers in Canada,

we often face unique challenges that can hinder our success compared to other communities.

These include:

- Self-Confidence:

Language and cultural differences can affect our self-confidence.

- Time Constraints:

Being extremely occupied with putting food on the table and working long hours leaves little time for networking.

- Community Engagement:

Staying on the outskirts of the community and not integrating fully can limit our opportunities.

- Workload Management:

Trying to do too much in a short time instead of spreading tasks over a longer period can be overwhelming.

By strategically enhancing our networking efforts,

both online

and offline,

we can support others in our community

and overcome these challenges.

Networking is everything.

Networking will give us encouragement,

boost our self-confidence by revealing how much we know and have to share,

and lead us down paths we could never have imagined.

Seyfi Tomar