Networking does not stop once you’ve landed the job. If you have aspirations of growing with the company, you should still need to network internally. As we discussed in Networking Tips 101, it is still about who you know or maybe in this case, who knows you. Therefore, it is important to meet people and build relationships within the organization.
- Schedule one-on-ones. If you’re new to the company, this is an ideal time to meet with the direct and indirect team that you’ll be working with. This helps ease the transition of working with someone new and both of you can get to know one another.
- Select a mentor. First, mentors don’t have to know they are your mentors. Find a co-worker that you respect and will be instrumental in helping you navigate the corporate culture, preferably this person should embody what you are trying to achieve. Bounce ideas off of this person. Have your mentor introduce you to colleagues you can network with.
- Book lunch meetings. Lunch is a great way to get to know co-workers and build a rapport with them. It has been said that hiring managers want to know they can have a meal with you.
- Conduct informationals. Looking to change roles and/or departments? Set up time to meet with the person currently in the position or department. This helps you understand if it is something you want to pursue.
- Attend offsite events. If possible, interact with your colleagues at off-site, non-work related events. However, do NOT become incoherent and become the brunt of office gossip. Your behavior is still being watched and if you have desires of moving up the corporate ladder you want to be cognizant of your actions at the event.
These are a few tips on how to broaden your network internally.
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