Networking Guide
Building a professional network is one of the most valuable things you can do for your career. This guide covers practical strategies to help you connect with confidence.Why Networking Matters
Many job opportunities are never advertised. Networking helps you:- Learn about roles before they are listed publicly
- Get referrals and recommendations
- Build relationships with people in your industry
- Gain insights into companies and career paths
- Grow your confidence through practice
Your Elevator Pitch
An elevator pitch is a brief introduction (30-60 seconds) that explains who you are and what you are looking for.Structure
- Who you are — Your name and a brief background
- What you do or are interested in — Your skills, experience, or career goals
- What you are looking for — The type of role or opportunity you want
- A conversation starter — A question or comment that invites further discussion
Example
“Hi, I’m Sarah. I’ve spent the last few years raising my family and I’m now looking to return to the workforce. I’m interested in administration and office support roles, and I’ve recently been upskilling in digital tools through the HER WAKA programme. I’d love to hear about how you got started in your career.”
Networking Strategies
- Start with who you know — Friends, family, former colleagues, and community contacts
- Attend events — Industry meetups, job fairs, and community events (like SheSharp workshops)
- Use LinkedIn — Connect with people you meet, join relevant groups, and engage with posts
- Volunteer — Volunteering can help you build skills and meet people in your field
- Be genuine — Focus on building real relationships, not just collecting contacts
Following Up
After meeting someone:- Connect on LinkedIn within 24 hours with a personalised message
- Reference your conversation — Mention something specific you discussed
- Stay in touch — Share articles, congratulate them on achievements, or check in periodically
- Be patient — Relationships take time to develop
The SheSharp Community
As a HER WAKA participant, you are part of the SheSharp community. This gives you access to:- Ongoing events — Workshops, networking sessions, and community gatherings
- Online community — Connect with other women in tech and career changers
- Mentorship opportunities — Learn from experienced professionals
- Job leads and referrals — Members often share opportunities within the network