🪨 Milestone 6: Networking (Online and In-Person)
Objective: Build and leverage a strong professional network to uncover job opportunities, gain industry insights, and increase visibility within target industries.
Subtasks
1. Define Networking Goals
Identify specific goals for networking (e.g., meet 5 new professionals per week, attend 2 events monthly, schedule 3 informational interviews). Create a list of target roles, companies, and industries for networking focus. 2. Online Networking
Update LinkedIn headline and summary to include keywords for target roles and industries. Send personalized connection requests to hiring managers, recruiters, and professionals in your field. Comment on and share relevant industry content to demonstrate thought leadership. Join LinkedIn groups and actively participate in discussions related to your industry. Message connections to request informational interviews or advice. Identify and engage with industry hashtags on Twitter or Instagram. Follow and interact with company pages or key thought leaders. Post original content, such as insights from events, projects, or industry news. Professional Forums and Platforms: Join industry-specific forums or Slack groups (e.g., Women in Tech, Product Management communities). Answer questions and share expertise to build credibility. Use platforms like Meetup or Eventbrite to find virtual events and webinars. 3. In-Person Networking
Attend Professional Events: Research and attend industry events, conferences, or meetups. Sign up for local networking events through chambers of commerce, professional associations, or job fairs. Attend alumni events or university career fairs if applicable. Prepare a 30-second elevator pitch tailored for different contexts. Bring business cards or digital contact-sharing tools (e.g., QR codes to LinkedIn profiles). Ask thoughtful questions to build genuine connections. Send personalized thank-you notes or LinkedIn messages to people met at events. Schedule follow-up meetings or coffee chats to deepen relationships. 4. Build a Networking Calendar
Create a monthly networking schedule combining online and in-person activities. Daily LinkedIn engagement. Weekly content creation or sharing. Bi-weekly informational interviews. Monthly in-person events. 5. Track and Evaluate Networking Efforts
Use a networking tracker (e.g., spreadsheet, Airtable) to record: Names and contact information. Context of the connection (event, LinkedIn, mutual contact). Date of interaction and follow-ups. Notes on conversations and next steps. Regularly evaluate your progress: Are you meeting your networking goals? Are new connections leading to opportunities or insights?