From Contacts to Connections: The Art of Building Your Super Network

As public relations professionals, we know the power of networking. It’s about building relationships and marketing yourself and your unique abilities to help make change. And it’s about staying open to conversations that enrich and enhance your life, because you never know where they might lead.

In the words of Herminia Ibarra, “Networking is a lot like nutrition and fitness: we know what to do, the hard part is making it a top priority.”

Throughout my career, networking has been a top priority, and it was once called one of my superpowers. As a communications and PR leader, I show a genuine interest in people, listen to their stories, and learn about my organization’s involvement to effectively communicate its vision and strategy to the public.

I started my career in the D.C. area more than 20 years ago because I recognized the importance of networking where many influential nonprofits and associations are located. I got involved with a local nonprofit through pro bono work, which helped me build my understanding of how nonprofits function and simultaneously make a difference in my community. I joined organizations like the D.C. chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), and I served as president of both. Networking and cultivating relationships through these organizations led me to the position I hold today.

Networking is about building meaningful relationships, as well as taking the time and making the consistent effort to do so.

Five keys to successful networking

Be genuine

Begin with the mindset that networking is allowing others to get to know you. It’s also connecting with others to exchange information and develop relationships. Authentic networking is rarely ever one-sided, and looking for opportunities to help the people in your networks will go a long way. People will remember your offers to help and that you took the time to check in.

Remember the ask

Networking is much more than the initial meeting and discussion. Your professional network should be a community of uniquely gifted people who are willing to help and encourage one another. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your network when you need it.

Create meaningful relationships

Take the time to get to know each person in your network and make a consistent effort to do so. Be sure to keep track of people as your relationships develop and grow. Congratulate members of your network on their wins and offer support when they may need it.

Meet the power

Be ready to take the initiative when you encounter top executives. Determine your message in advance. By knowing what you want to say and how you want to say it, you’ll come across as focused, articulate and insightful.

Use what you've learned

Send a note after an event. The joy of networking is in the people you meet, and you may just gain mentors along the way. People want to help those they like and respect. They can’t start liking you if you don’t give them a chance to get to know you.

Networking is not just about connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities. So go out there, make meaningful connections and see where it takes you.