The Power of Networking

Strategies for Securing a Promotion 

Today’s business world is dynamic and competitive, often requiring extra skills to get promoted and climb the corporate ladder. Besides being excellent at your job, strengthening your networking skills goes a long way.  

Networking, in a professional context, is the process of building and maintaining relationships with other individuals in your field or industry. It’s not only about socializing but also about growing meaningful and mutually beneficial relationships with colleagues, peers, mentors, and industry leaders.  

Networking with the right people at the right time and place can do wonders for your career. Here are some tips to use networking to advance your career and secure a promotion.  

How Networking Can Transform Your Career  

Networking allows you to stay in the loop regarding new opportunities at your company, like job openings, new projects and collaborations.  

Through connections, you can get valuable insights from industry experts inside and outside your company. The potential knowledge you gain about new practices and technology in your industry will also help you excel at your job. 

Moreover, networking helps you get recommendations and referrals from trusted contacts, which can increase your chance of securing a promotion. 

How to Network to Get Promoted  

Below are four ways you can network your way to a promotion.  

Find Key Players 

Start your networking journey by mapping out your organization’s hierarchy to identify decision-makers and influential figures within your company. It’s more efficient to know who you need to connect with first and then get knowledgeable about their roles and how they can potentially help you. That way, you can dedicate your time cultivating meaningful connections with people at work.  

Strengthen Your Network 

After finding key players, it’s time to start building rapport and leaving an impression. One effective strategy for strengthening your network is to actively participate in industry events, conferences, and seminars. These gatherings offer valuable opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and stay up to date with industry trends. Additionally, you can also take part in online communities and associations to expand your network beyond your immediate network.  

Reach Out to Contacts 

Now that you’ve made a list of contacts who may help you advance in your career, it’s time to reach out. How you reach out to your contacts is key. Send people you’ve just met a clear and personalized message via email or call them directly. Always use respectful and professional language. It’s better to ask for advice or feedback first before asking directly for a connection or for help getting a new role.  

Maintain and Cultivate Relationships 

Once you’ve established a connection, it’s crucial to invest time and effort into supporting and cultivating the relationship. Reach out to your network regularly through email, phone calls, or in-person meetings to show you’re genuinely interested and committed. Actively engaging with your contacts by sharing relevant industry insights, offering to help them or celebrating their achievements builds mutual trust and strengthens your bond. 

Harness the Power of Networking 

Building and nurturing your network is an ongoing process that requires dedication and authenticity. The rewards are well worth the effort. Follow us on LinkedIn and start connecting with experts in the Insurtech, insurance and digital marketing industries.