The Secret of Powerful Networks

The Secret of Powerful Networks

Have you ever felt like you’ve hit a wall in your career despite working hard and delivering results? It’s a feeling many executives experience, but there’s often a solution right in front of us that we’re not fully tapping into: our networks.

Not all networks are created equal— and there’s one type that many leaders tend to overlook: strategic networks.

I worked in corporate for many years before starting my own practice. I remember that moment when I realised I was relying too heavily on my operational network. I had strong relationships with my team and peers, but I wasn’t building the kind of connections that could open doors to new opportunities. That’s when I started focusing on my strategic network—and everything changed.

Let’s break down the three types of networks every executive should be developing:

1. Personal Networks Your personal network includes close friends, family, mentors, and advisors. These are the people you lean on for emotional support, personal advice, and guidance. While this network is essential for your overall well-being, it’s not usually where your career advancement comes from.
2. Operational Networks Your operational network consists of colleagues, direct reports, and internal teams who help you get your job done. These relationships are key to managing day-to-day responsibilities, but they’re often transactional. This network supports your current role, but it won’t necessarily drive your future growth.
3. Strategic Networks This is where the magic happens. Strategic networks extend beyond your immediate circle and are essential for long-term career growth. They include indusytry influencers, decision-makers, and thought leaders and even those who are in roles you aspire to be in one day. These connections help you see around corners, discover new opportunities, and unlock fresh perspectives.

Why Strategic Networks Are Overlooked

So why are strategic networks often overlooked? The truth is, it’s easy to get caught up in managing what’s in front of us—projects, teams, and daily responsibilities. It’s tempting to stick with the relationships that help us execute today’s tasks, rather than expanding into new areas that might feel less familiar or urgent.

But here’s the catch: without a strong strategic network, you might miss out on the opportunities that can truly propel your career forward. You risk stagnation, losing sight of fresh ideas, and getting stuck in the day-to-day instead of moving into new spaces.

How to Build Your Strategic Network

1. Expand Beyond Your Industry One of the most effective ways to build a strategic network is by connecting with leaders outside of your immediate industry. When I first started reaching out to people in adjacent fields, I was amazed at how many new ideas and approaches I could apply to my own work. This kind of cross-pollination helps you innovate and stay ahead of the curve.
2. Attend High-Level Conferences While operational-level events are helpful, strategic networking often happens at exclusive industry conferences, executive roundtables, and thought-leadership gatherings. These are the places where you can connect with the “movers and shakers” in your field. For example, conferences like the CEDA, GAICD events for CEW or industry-specific executive forums are great places to start.
3. Be Intentional About Relationship-Building Building a strategic network requires more than just shaking hands. Identify key influencers and decision-makers, then be proactive in connecting with them. Offer value by sharing your insights or introducing them to people in your network. These relationships take time and effort to cultivate, but they’re well worth the investment.
4. Leverage Digital Platforms LinkedIn is a powerful tool for expanding your strategic network. Start engaging with thought leaders by commenting on their content, sharing valuable insights, or sending personalised messages. Over time, you’ll build a reputation as someone worth knowing, which helps you gain visibility and credibility in broader networks.
5. Seek Out Board or Advisory Roles One of the best ways to access high-level networks is by serving on committees, boards or advisory panels. These roles put you in direct contact with other senior executives and decision-makers, helping you stay involved in strategic conversations and shaping high-level decisions.

Unlocking the Power of Strategic Networks

The secret to building a powerful network lies in understanding its different layers. Personal and operational networks are essential for keeping you grounded and productive in the short term, but if you’re aiming for long-term career growth, influence, and innovation, you need to prioritise strategic networking.

Building these relationships is an investment in your future. The insights, connections, and opportunities that come from a well-developed strategic network will position you as a leader who can drive strategy and influence across industries.

So here’s my question for you: Are you focusing enough on building your strategic network? The time to start is now. Take a small step today—whether it’s reaching out to someone new, attending an industry event, or sharing your perspective online—and watch how these relationships can transform your career.

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Hi, I’m Sarah Makris I help senior executives build visibility, credibility, and opportunities through my proven SHINE methodology. If you want to learn how to accelerate and future-proof your career, my content is for you