Networking, according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is “the process of interacting with others to build contacts and establish mutually beneficial relationships.” The value of networking lies in exchanging insights about your work, offering value to others, and building trust so you are top of mind when future opportunities arise. Having a network of peers creates a sense of belonging and builds camaraderie with people who experience similar challenges. Being able to reach out to a trusted colleague when you need help with a case is invaluable during your early career and beyond. If you are seeking a new employment opportunity, your network is often the most valuable place to look.
Maintaining Your Existing Network
You probably already have robust connections from undergraduate and veterinary school, externships and internships, and your current job. As you attend professional conferences and continuing education events, you’ll meet many new people to add to your network. Maintaining those relationships can be challenging unless you are intentional about it. When you attend an interesting presentation or read a thought-provoking journal article, send a quick note to someone in your network who is interested in the topic. Set up a group chat with colleagues from your internship so you can keep in touch regularly as you move into new roles. When you attend continuing education events, check the attendee list for people you know, and make an effort to connect with them, even if just to grab a coffee.
Building New Relationships
Mutually beneficial networking begins with a genuine desire to build relationships for the purpose of giving and receiving as a professional. If someone asks you to donate your time to help the profession, try to say yes. The connections you make with others who have stepped up to make a positive difference will be long-lasting. Relationships will wither if you are networking only to get and not to give. It takes effort to cultivate relationships that grow and flourish.
Conferences present a great opportunity to meet new people through your existing network. Set a goal to make solid connections with people who interest you. It is more important to be interested in them, rather than focusing on being interesting. Ask about their practice, professional goals, and hobbies instead of talking about yourself. When you follow this path, they are more likely to remember you when you follow up with them.
Schedule time to connect and build credibility with your connections every so often. Look for ways to help them, such as by introducing them to a potential referral source or inviting them to check out your new gastroscope if they are looking at buying one.
Final Thoughts
Whether personal and professional, all relationships evolve through three phases: becoming visible or known to each other, building trust and credibility, and creating value for each other. Connecting with others in the industry, getting to know them, building a relationship, and helping them whenever you can are the linchpins of successful networking.
Related Reading
- Early Career Insights: Choosing the Associate Position That’s Right for You
- Early Career Insights: Establishing a Successful Mentor-Mentee Relationship
- Early Career Insights: How to Choose the Right Veterinary Internship Position
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