How To Build Your Network

In this step, we’ll outline several highly effective ways to build your network and start reaping those all-important benefits that could help you get your dream job in the wellness industry.

In-person events: One of the most traditional methods of networking is a face-to-face event, where the audience is likely to share a similar interest. There are a few tried and tested ways to meet new people…

1. Spot someone you know and start getting familiar with their network.
2. Do your research! Find out who’s going to attend the event and prepare your meeting.
3. Chat to the person sitting beside you.

Digital events: In 2020, the world was turned upside down by COVID-19. Live events were canceled, and digital events became the norm. Traditional live event networking won’t work as effectively here but there are still plenty of ways to make the most of the opportunity…

1. Ask the organiser if there is a guest portal or place for guests to exchange contact details.
2. Chat to the speakers and your fellow guests in the ‘chat’ function during the event. Offer your LinkedIn contact details to connect after the event.
3. After the event email the speakers (or ask the organiser) to connect. Share how much you enjoyed their talk and why you would like to connect.

LinkedIn: A great digital networking tool for any professional. Here’s how to get started with building your LinkedIn network…

1. Make sure your profile is up to date with your current and previous jobs. Include a bio with a link to your personal website or blog.
2. Build your LinkedIn network with people you know including current colleagues, ex-colleagues, school peers, friends, and professional contacts.
3. Post relevant insights about the content you’re interested in and spark conversations.

LinkedIn shares its top tips for getting started with networking. You can find it in the See also section below.

Volunteer: Finding something you’re passionate about is often the first step to discovering what fulfills you. Volunteering roles vary greatly and can provide not only an opportunity to network, but a chance to develop your CV. Below are some great volunteering opportunities in the wellness industry…

1. Help at an event (usually best suited to in-person events). This could be anything from checking people in at a wellness festival like Balance Festival, or event managing for a mass meditation with Just Breathe.
2. Give some time every week to support a growing wellness startup.
3. If you’re passionate about supporting people through difficult times, it might be worth considering mental health charity Mind. This could fulfil some of your core values, and provide great work experience.

Social media: Curate a personal brand and build relationships with people all over the world. Here’s how to start building your network on social media…

1. Create and update your profile. Make sure you’re comfortable with potential employers seeing your posts, and photos.
2. Follow brands and individuals you’re interested in. Keep up to date with what they post and make sure to ‘like’ and ‘comment’.
3. Post content regularly. Each platform allows you to curate your message in a slightly different way so optimise for that.

This article by the New York Times provides a snapshot into the benefits of each social media platform. You can click on the link to read the article in the See also section.

Comment on blog posts: Blogs are created to help drive community. It is therefore likely that fellow readers share your passion for the content the blogger is creating. Use this shared interest to build your network…

1. Follow and subscribe to blogs you’re passionate about. Here are a couple to get you started:
   • for fitness content, Alice Liveing
   • intrigued by nutrition? The Nutrition Guy
   • big brands often have blogs so check out the meditation app Calm’s blog
2. Like posts you enjoyed or found helpful.
3. Continue the conversation in the comments section and engage with other audience members when they respond.

Nurture existing relationships: Probably one of the easiest ways to network is by utilising the connections you already have. Keep in touch with old colleagues, friends, and family members, and don’t be afraid to share what your career objectives are…

1. Attend any social events you’re invited to and get chatting within the room.
2. Send messages of celebration on social platforms with an open invitation to catch up soon.

What do you think?

To be successful at networking requires intention. What has worked for you? What have you found challenging/rewarding?