Strategic Network Building

After spending three decades in the aerospace industry, I’ve seen firsthand how crucial it is for different sectors to learn from each other. We no longer can afford to stay stuck in our own bubbles. Take the aerospace industry, for example. They’ve been looking at how car manufacturers automate their factories to improve their own processes. And those racing teams? Their ability to prototype quickly and develop at a breakneck pace is something we can all learn from to speed up our product development. It’s all about breaking down those silos and embracing new ideas from wherever we can find them. When I was leading the Scorpion Jet program, our rapid development – less than two years to develop a new aircraft – caught the attention of a company known for razors and electric shavers. They reached out to us, intrigued by our ability to iterate so quickly, telling me "you developed a new jet faster than we can develop new razors..." They wanted to learn how we managed to streamline our processes. It was quite an unexpected and fascinating experience that underscored the value of looking beyond one’s own industry can lead to significant improvements and efficiencies, even in fields as seemingly unrelated as aerospace and consumer electronics. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s more important than ever for industries to break out of their silos and look to other sectors for fresh ideas and processes. This kind of cross-industry learning not only fosters innovation but also helps stay competitive in a rapidly changing market. For instance, the aerospace industry has been taking cues from car manufacturers to improve factory automation. And the automotive companies are adopting aerospace processes for systems engineering. Meanwhile, both sectors are picking up tips from tech giants like Apple and Google to boost their electronics and software development. And at Siemens, we partner with racing teams. Why? Because their knack for rapid prototyping and fast-paced development is something we can all learn from to speed up our product development cycles. This cross-pollination of ideas is crucial as industries evolve and integrate more advanced technologies. By exploring best practices from other industries, companies can find innovative new ways to improve their processes and products. After all, how can someone think outside the box, if they are only looking in the box? If you are interested in learning more, I suggest checking out this article by my colleagues Todd Tuthill and Nand Kochhar where they take a closer look at how cross-industry learning are key to developing advanced air mobility solutions. https://lnkd.in/dK3U6pJf

Applying online is one of the slowest ways to land a job, so try this instead: Digital Proximity. This means being virtually near people at companies you want to work for and getting to know them. It's about building genuine connections in the digital space where these professionals spend their time. Here's how to leverage Digital Proximity: 🍊 Identify your target companies and the key people within them. 🍊 Research which online platforms these individuals frequent - whether it's LinkedIn, Slack, Discord, industry forums, or niche Facebook groups. 🍊 Engage meaningfully with them. Ask questions, share insights, and contribute to discussions. 🍊 Gradually build authentic relationships through thoughtful interactions and direct messages. Your next job is more likely to come through a person than a database. So by focusing on building relationships, you're not just seeking a job - you're creating a network that can propel your entire career forward. This approach requires more creativity and initiative than traditional job hunting, but is faster. You'll gain industry insights, expand your professional network, and position yourself for opportunities that may never be publicly advertised. And if you're ready to land more job offers your job search, I've created a free Job Shopping class that dives deeper into this strategy and other innovative job-seeking techniques. You'll find the link in the comments below! Have you ever used this type of strategy before? #Networking #JobSearch #CareerTips #Inspiration

12 ways to network your way into a new role (Without sending annoying cold DMs) Everyone talks about networking into a new role. But you don’t have to send spammy LinkedIn DMs: “Hey, I’m applying for a job, can you refer me?” It's a big ask to someone you don’t know. Real networking is a powerful tool. Here’s 12 ways to build your professional network: 1/ Join alumni committees ↳ Active members get first job referrals 2/ Connect your connections  ↳ Value multiplies through introductions 3/ Find conversations everywhere ↳ The hair salon or barbershop is a connection spot 4/ Attend industry events  ↳ Real connections happen in smaller spaces 5/ Build your board of directors ↳ Offer to help at their events/workshops 6/ Join non-business groups  ↳ Life interests create stronger bonds 7/ Create micro-communities  ↳ Small groups drive deeper connections 8/ Volunteer strategically ↳ Join committees where decision-makers serve 9/ Host mini-meetups ↳ Bring 3-4 professionals together for coffee 10/ Attend a public talk ↳ Find others who are similarly aligned 11/ Online professional communities ↳ Informal Slacks, Discords, & masterminds 12/ Professional associations ↳ Give you an immediate shared starting point Focus on building genuine relationships. One meaningful connection a week is 52 a year. Build a network before you need a job. How are you going to build your network this week? ♻️ Repost to help your network 🔔 Follow Ashley Couto for career growth

How could I build a career if I couldn't even handle a "simple" networking event? Twenty years later, I'm CHRO. And I still hate networking events. But I cracked the code. Traditional networking assumes collecting 50 business cards equals success. For introverts? One deep conversation beats 50 shallow hellos. Quality over quantity isn't just our preference. It's our superpower. So I built my own system. ——————————————— → The 100-Point Energy Budget Every event, you start with 100 energy points: • Random small talk: -15 • Meaningful conversation: -5 • Pretending to laugh at bad jokes: -20 • Finding a fellow introvert: +10 • Strategic "email break": +5 Hit 20 points? Leave. That's not quitting. It's resource management. ——————————————— → The 3-Deep Rule While extroverts collect 50 cards, I build 3 real connections. They get names. I get allies. They get LinkedIn adds. I get coffee meetings. They get forgotten. I get remembered. One meaningful conversation > 50 forgettable handshakes. Tell people you're "gathering insights for research." Now it's an interview, not small talk. Arrive 15 minutes early. Quieter room, better conversations. ——————————————— → The Opener That Works "I'm testing a theory that admitting you're an introvert at networking events creates better connections. You're participant seven." People lean in. They want in on your experiment. Ask what matters: "What problem are you tackling right now?" "If you weren't here, what would you rather be doing?" ——————————————— → The Lighthouse Strategy Don't circulate. Plant yourself somewhere visible. Let people come to you. Or volunteer at check-in for 30 minutes. Meet everyone, defined role, then disappear. Set 45-minute alarms. Energy check. Below 5? Bathroom break. ——————————————— → Permission Granted You can officially: • Leave after 52 minutes • Eat lunch alone at conferences • Say "I need to recharge" • Build your network through LinkedIn • Skip events that don't serve you My biggest deals came from 1-on-1 coffees, not cocktail parties. My best hires came from deep conversations, not speed networking. ——————————————— → The Truth Successful introverted executives didn't learn to act like extroverts. They learned to network like strategists. My record? 12-minute holiday party appearance. Two conversations. Both mattered. Still got promoted. Once had my assistant call with an "urgent client matter" 45 minutes into a dinner. The client was my cat. Zero regrets. Your quiet nature isn't a bug — it's an executive feature. Your energy management isn't high maintenance — it's self-leadership. The revolution isn't about becoming louder. It's about quiet leaders writing the rules. From a comfortable distance. Through screens or deep connection. Like the evolved professionals we are. ♻️ Share to save an introvert from networking hell 📩 Get my Networking Energy Toolkit → https://lnkd.in/dfhfHWe5

Even with a vast network, only 7-8% of people on LinkedIn secure better opportunities, while over 90% struggle to switch jobs. To succeed on LinkedIn and get job opportunities, follow these step-by-step guidelines: 1. Define Your Goals: - Before diving into networking, outline your career objectives and desired job roles. - Consider factors like industry, role, and company culture that align with your aspirations. - Identify successful professionals in your desired fields to serve as role models and potential connections.  2. Initiate Connections:   A. Utilize LinkedIn:  - Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your industry. - Personalize connection requests by highlighting shared interests or mutual connections. - Keep your messages genuine and concise.  B. Attend Events:  - Participate in industry conferences, workshops, and networking gatherings. - Engage in meaningful conversations and exchange contact information. - Follow up with new connections after the event.  C. Conduct Informational Interviews:  - Request informational interviews with professionals whose careers you admire. - Prepare insightful questions and seek advice rather than job opportunities. - Focus on building relationships rather than direct job inquiries.  3. Maintain Regular Follow-Ups:  - Send concise follow-up emails after meeting new connections, expressing gratitude and referencing specific conversation points. - Stay in touch with your network by sharing updates and showing genuine interest in their professional endeavors.  4. Expand Your Network:  - Don’t limit your network to your immediate industry; connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. - Engage in online forums, webinars, and social media discussions relevant to your field. - Offer valuable insights and connect with like-minded professionals. Additionally, keep in mind: - Focus on quality connections over quantity. - Give back to your network and offer support when possible. - Keep your LinkedIn profile updated and share relevant content to maintain your online presence. Remember, networking goes beyond mere connections; it’s about nurturing genuine relationships. Dedicate time and effort, and your network will prove invaluable in your job search and beyond. #Linkedin #Jobsearchtips #networking

Your network expands when your intent is to connect, not to collect. A meaningful network isn’t measured by how many contacts you collect, but by how much trust and reciprocity you create. The real value lies in relationships where support flows both ways. At times you may be the one offering guidance, a connection, or an opportunity. At other times, it’s about having the humility to reach out and ask for help. Both are equally important. Here are some ways to invest in your network: 1. Listen actively : Understand what others need before you speak. 2. Offer value : Share insights, knowledge, or introductions generously. 3. Stay consistent: Keep relationships alive beyond moments of need. 4. Be authentic : Build trust by being genuine, not transactional. 5. Ask when needed : Seeking support strengthens bonds, not weakens them. Networking done right is not transactional, it’s transformational. How do you nurture your network? #possibilitariangauri

In today’s interconnected world, 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 has become an invaluable skill for professionals at all levels. Building and maintaining meaningful relationships can open doors to new opportunities, foster collaboration, and drive personal and professional growth. Here are some key strategies for effective networking: ① 𝗕𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗶𝗻𝗲: Authenticity is key in building trust and rapport. Approach networking with a genuine interest in others, and focus on creating meaningful connections rather than just expanding your contact list. ② 𝗔𝗱𝗱 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲: Think about how you can contribute to others before seeking what you can gain. Offering help, sharing knowledge, or connecting people can make you a valuable contact and strengthen your network. ③ 𝗕𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲: Don’t wait for networking opportunities to come to you. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and engage in online communities to expand your reach. ④ 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮: Platforms like LinkedIn are powerful tools for networking. Regularly update your profile, share insightful content, and engage with others’ posts to stay visible and relevant. ⑤ 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗨𝗽: After meeting someone new, follow up with a personalized message to reinforce the connection. Staying in touch and showing appreciation can turn a casual acquaintance into a lasting professional relationship. ⑥ 𝗦𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝗠𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀: Look for ways to create win-win situations. Networking should be mutually beneficial, where both parties gain value from the relationship. ⑦ 𝗕𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁: Building a strong network takes time and effort. Be patient and persistent, and remember that quality is more important than quantity. Strategic networking is more than just collecting business cards; it’s about creating a supportive community where knowledge, opportunities, and growth are shared. By investing in your network, you invest in your future success. 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙚𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙣𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙟𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙮? 𝙎𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙞𝙥𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙬! Ruta Pathak Santosh v #Networking #ProfessionalGrowth #BusinessConnections #StrategicNetworking

In today's interconnected world, virtual networking has become an essential tool for professionals seeking to expand their horizons and forge meaningful connections. As we navigate through digital spaces, the ability to make a great first impression is more important than ever. So, how can you ensure that you leave a lasting impact in the virtual realm? Let's delve into some strategies that can elevate your professionalism and make you stand out in virtual networking events. Before diving into any virtual networking event, take the time to curate your digital persona. This encompasses everything from your profile picture to your bio and even your background. In virtual networking, active engagement is key to making a memorable first impression. Take the initiative to introduce yourself to others in the event, utilizing features such as chat boxes or breakout rooms to initiate conversations. Remember to actively listen to what others have to say, offering meaningful contributions and fostering authentic connections. One of the most effective ways to make a great first impression in virtual networking is by showcasing your expertise. Share valuable insights, industry knowledge, or relevant experiences that highlight your unique perspective and capabilities. The true value of virtual networking lies in the follow-up. After the event, take the time to follow up with individuals you connected with, whether it's through a personalized email, LinkedIn message, or virtual coffee chat. Lastly, remember mastering the art of virtual networking requires a combination of preparation, engagement, expertise, and follow-up. By implementing these strategies, you can make a great first impression that resonates with your audience and sets the stage for fruitful relationships and professional growth. So, the next time you find yourself in a virtual networking event, seize the opportunity to showcase your professionalism and leave a lasting impact. Your future self will thank you for it. #virtualnetworking #professionalism #networkingtips #expertiseshowcase #careergrowth #businessnetworking National University of Singapore

Attending a conference? To increase the ROI from your time, effort, and money - it's important to 1) prepare ahead of time, 2) craft a game plan, 3) stay engaged during the event, and 4) take proactive steps afterward to maximize professional growth and connections. Below and attached are some key tips and a roadmap of to dos to maximize results from conference attendance. ➡️ Prepare Before Your Go: - Define clear goals for attending the conference, such as networking, learning, or scouting new opportunities. - Review the event schedule and identify sessions, speakers, and networking events relevant to your objectives. - Research attendees and, if possible, reach out for pre-conference meetings or introductions. - Prepare an elevator pitch to describe yourself succinctly and bring business cards, or digital equivalents, for easy information exchange. ➡️ Be Ready to Maximize Your Experience: - To expand your network, attend both formal sessions and informal events, such as coffee breaks, dinners, or social activities. - Attend a variety of session formats to broaden your learning, from workshops to panels and lectures. - To cover more ground, consider distributing your team among parallel sessions and share notes afterward. - Throughout the event, take notes on key takeaways, interesting contacts, and actionable tips. - Use the conference app or social media to connect with other attendees and keep track of sessions and people you meet. ➡️ Network Effectively: - Approach new contacts genuinely and avoid overly sales-focused conversations. - Refer to name tags for personalized introductions and ask follow-up questions to foster meaningful dialogue. - Be a giver: offer assistance to others and share insights from sessions to start conversations. - Be ready to end conversations politely and move on as needed. ➡️ Post-Conference Actions: - As soon as possible after the event, review and organize your notes on sessions and contacts. - Summarize and share insights, key takeaways, and resources with your team or network to extend conference value. - Follow up with new contacts via LinkedIn ASAP, and later via email to continue professional relationships. - Take time to reflect on your original goals for attending and whether attending the conference helped you achieve them, then plan for improvements at future events. - Rest and recharge as needed: balance intense participation with self-care. When approached intentionally and actively, attending a conference is a valuable opportunity for professional development and networking. With solid preparation, engaged participation, and strategic follow-up, anyone can turn a single event into long-term benefits and connections! Please share other tips in the comments. Thx! #businessdevelopment #marketing

In my career I’ve had the privilege of working abroad, moving from my native England to spending nearly 6 years in the NHL and NFL across America. One of the most frequent questions I get asked is how to land jobs abroad, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: build your network in a genuine, authentic way. I remember when I got my job in the US—it wasn’t because of a CV submission, but because someone in my network was asked for recommendations for sports scientists. My name was put forward because I’d connected with that person, built trust, and maintained that relationship. Had I not made the effort to meet them and stay in touch, that opportunity might not have come my way. So, what’s the secret to building a network that works for you? Don’t just cold-call people to make sure they know your name. Instead, engage in conversation. Ask specific questions, share your research, and offer value to the conversation. Relationships are two-way streets. Social media and video conferencing are powerful tools. Use them to connect with professionals around the world—there are no limits to the size of your network these days! Be genuine and patient. These relationships often take time to grow, but when they do, they can open doors to amazing opportunities. Building a network in sports science isn’t just about getting your name out there—it’s about creating lasting, valuable relationships. These are the ones that can lead to unexpected opportunities. Check out the full video where I dive into top tips for working abroad and share more stories about how networking shaped my career: https://buff.ly/408cM3z