How to Create a Network from the Ground Up

Half of your success stems from who you know. Maintaining relationships with people who can give you valuable insights and open doors to new opportunities will positively impact your career. 

But your network may need some work if you're a fresh graduate or amid a career change. 

Here’s a guide that will help you with the steps you must take to build a strong network. 

1. Develop the Right Mindset
Before you give out business cards or start clicking any “connect” on Linkedin, you must develop the mindset of building genuine relationships. Networking is about learning and teaching; you give and receive. Be authentic. Aim to create mutually beneficial connections. 

2. Identify Your Goals
What are you trying to accomplish with your network? Are you trying to get a job? Are you seeking mentorship? Are you trying to learn more about an industry? Having clear goals to focus your efforts and keep track of your progress is essential. 

3. Develop Your Brand
You don’t need a logo and a slogan. Your brand is more about your reputation and how you present yourself. It encapsulates your personality, skills, and the value you bring to others. Be consistent with your approach to establish credibility for your connections.

4. Practice Effective Communication
Continue to develop your communication skills so that you can listen attentively, give thoughtful insights, and ask intelligent questions. Learn how to create proposals and provide valuable feedback. This skill will take you far when trying to build your network. 

5.  Start with People You Already Know
Begin with your friends, family, classmates, co-workers, and anyone you can leverage to make professional connections. Ask for introductions. The best connections can come from the people closest to you and be a strong foundation for your network. 

6. Use Online Resources
LinkedIn, Facebook, X (Twitter), online communities, and forums are some of the tools you can use to connect with people who share your professional goals. You have the opportunity to build a network of people all over the world.

7. Attend In-Person Networking Events
The rise of the internet has enabled many to connect with a few clicks of a mouse. But still, don’t underestimate the value of connecting with people in person. Conferences, seminars, workshops, and local meetups continue to be an effective way to build a network.

8. Seek Mentorship
The most valuable connections you’ll have in your professional network are your mentors. Your mentors can accelerate your career growth if you can get them to vouch for your skills and knowledge. They can also introduce you to other prominent figures and help you take advantage of opportunities.

Reach out to prominent people in your field. Ask for advice or a chance to receive training from them. Be respectful of their time. Know what you want from the mentorship and show that you value their input.

9. Adjust Your Strategy When Needed
You may need to change your approach occasionally to meet your goals. 

For example, you can still gain insights by reaching out to people who may not be in your exact role but are in an adjacent role or industry.  

10. Stay Persistent
Cultivating a solid network takes time and effort. As long as you stay consistent with developing your skills, reaching out, providing value, and participating in discussions, you’ll connect with more and more people who can help you build your career.