This is your The Woman's Career Podcast podcast.
Welcome to The Woman’s Career Podcast, where we dive straight into strategies you can use right now to boost your professional journey. Today we’re tackling networking: not just as a buzzword, but as a critical tool for advancement, opportunity, and real empowerment, especially for women ready to break new ground. Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or posting on LinkedIn and praying someone notices. It’s about building meaningful relationships, becoming part of supportive communities, and actively shaping the professional landscape around you. Ellevate Network has shown how preparation is everything—knowing your event, planning your elevator pitch, and researching attendees in advance helps dispel nerves and sets the stage for genuine conversations. If you’re an introvert or shy in unfamiliar settings, preparation becomes your superpower. Go in knowing what you want to say, think of two or three open-ended questions before you walk through the door, and remember: meaningful connections often stem from listening, not just talking. For introverts, small wins matter, so don’t feel pressured to work the entire room. Instead, aim to have a few quality conversations and follow up afterward—because that’s where real relationships grow.
Now, for extroverts, networking might come more naturally, but intention is key. According to research from the WomenTech Network, senior women leaders excel by being strategic—joining targeted industry summits, executive networking events, and mentoring programs. If connecting is your strength, leverage it by facilitating introductions for others and diversifying your circles. Build out a 360-degree network: not just colleagues in your field, but mentors in other industries, advocates at different career stages, and peers who challenge your perspective.
Speaking of mentorship, less than a third of women leaders report having a mentor, despite those with mentors being twice as likely to land board seats, promotions, or high-impact projects. Don’t hesitate to seek out mentors and, when ready, pay it forward by mentoring others. This creates a community of support that multiplies opportunities for everyone.
Another tip for everyone—follow up is non-negotiable. The Center for Creative Leadership highlights the importance of maintaining, leveraging, and sometimes transitioning relationships. A quick message saying you enjoyed meeting someone or a thoughtful share of an article keeps your network fresh. Deborah Gray from Central Michigan University recommends building on shared interests and joining resource groups or boards, such as community associations or professional women’s networks—these are goldmines for relationships and resource sharing.
Finally, approach rejection as direction, not defeat. Dana Theus, an executive coach, encourages women to see a “no” as clarity, not failure. This shift liberates your energy to keep reaching out, keep learning, and keep growing.
Celebrate every connection and recognize the value you bring. Your network isn’t just a tool for getting ahead—it’s a lifeline for growth, resilience, and discovering your most empowered self.
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