Building a Strong Professional Network: Why It’s Essential and How to Get Started
By Sophie Makonnen
You've likely heard a colleague or mentor emphasize how valuable networking can be. For good reason, strong networks are key to both personal and professional growth. They can open doors to new opportunities, foster meaningful collaborations, and provide valuable insights that help you move forward.
These days, we often associate networking with social media. Platforms like LinkedIn have made connecting with many people at once easier. But it's important to remember that networking isn’t a new concept. What’s changed is the speed and reach of networking—not the need for meaningful professional connections.
Building rapport, earning trust, and fostering meaningful exchanges have always been essential. Whether over coffee, during collaborative projects, or at conferences, the goal has always been to create relationships that support both personal and professional growth.
Social media may provide new tools, but the foundation of networking remains unchanged: it's about connecting, communicating, and collaborating.
Rethinking Networking
As important as networking is, many of us cringe at the thought—especially introverts. We picture handing out business cards at events and later ask ourselves: What am I supposed to do with all these cards?
If that’s the image you have, it’s time to rethink networking. Networking isn’t about small talk or collecting contacts—it’s about building connections that matter.
A meaningful professional relationship can begin with something as simple as a shared interest or an authentic conversation. It can grow into collaborations, mentorships, or partnerships that enrich both your career and your life.
Strong and Weak Ties
Your network isn’t limited to close colleagues or mentors. Sociologist Mark Granovetter’s research highlights the importance of "weak ties"—connections with acquaintances and people you interact with less frequently.
Weak ties often provide access to fresh perspectives, information, and opportunities your close-knit circle may not offer. By fostering both strong and weak ties, you build a dynamic, resilient network.
Pillars of Networking
Networking isn’t about the numbers or amassing contacts. It’s about building authentic, meaningful connections that stand the test of time.
Quality Over Quantity: Networking is about finding people who resonate with you—fellow travellers on a shared journey, whether personal or professional. It’s about identifying those with whom you can build something meaningful, where the relationship is mutually enriching and built on trust and respect. Even introverts benefit from these authentic connections!
Reciprocity Matters: Authentic networking involves mutual support, not just seeking favours. Look for ways to add value—whether by sharing helpful resources, amplifying someone’s work, or lending your expertise. And remember: you bring value to the relationship, too.
Respect Boundaries: Be mindful of how much you ask and when. Respecting others' time, energy, and availability helps ensure the relationship remains balanced and mutually beneficial. Thoughtful communication builds trust and fosters long-term relationships.
By focusing on quality, practicing reciprocity, and respecting boundaries, networking becomes more than an exchange of information—it becomes a way to cultivate a network of meaningful, lasting connections.
Networking as an International Development Professional
Networking in international development is shaped by a complex stakeholder ecosystem that spans multiple layers—from governments and international organizations to donors, grassroots partners, and NGOs. Successfully navigating these relationships requires balancing collaboration and accountability across diverse interests.
Professionals in international development frequently move between roles, organizations, or countries due to the sector's structure—short-term contracts, project-based funding, career advancement opportunities, or required rotations from one country to another.
This nomadic nature means professionals must frequently rebuild their networks. This can lead to "networking fatigue," as professionals constantly re-establish credibility and relationships. However, maintaining connections through these transitions fosters continuity, strengthens ties, and keeps you informed about emerging opportunities.
Building rapport requires cultural sensitivity and the ability to adapt to diverse communication styles. Understanding cultural norms, local politics, and community dynamics helps strengthen connections in cross-cultural settings.
While frequent moves present challenges, they also offer exposure to new perspectives and help create a rich, global network that transcends organizations and geographies—turning professional connections into sources of long-term growth and opportunity.
How to Build Your Network: Actionable Tips
Strengthen Your Online Presence:
Leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with peers, join interest groups, and share your work or insights. An active online presence keeps you visible and engaged in your field.
Adapt to the Hybrid World:
Virtual networking has become essential due to its global reach and post-pandemic realities. Participate in webinars, virtual conferences, and online discussions to maintain and grow your network, regardless of location.
Be Intentional About Staying in Touch:
Consistency matters. Follow up with people you meet—send notes of appreciation, share articles or resources that might interest them, or simply check-in. Heidi Roizen calls this practice the "aggressive hour"—setting aside one hour daily for intentional outreach. Use this time for purposeful outreach rather than responding to daily demands. Setting time aside ensures that networking becomes a proactive investment in your professional growth rather than a task you squeeze in "when you have time." It's not about doing a lot at once—it's about showing up regularly in small but meaningful ways.
If you work in an international organization, being intentional is even more crucial due to the frequent transitions and relocations that come with the job.
Be Patient:
Building authentic, meaningful relationships takes time and trust. Avoid transactional interactions—focus instead on mutual understanding and shared goals. As Karen Wickre explains in her book Taking the Work Out of Networking, take just 10 minutes a day to send casual “hellos”—a small habit that goes a long way. The real power of networking lies in its consistency and lack of urgency. Nurture relationships long before you need them. A simple message checking in after someone’s presentation or article can demonstrate your genuine interest and keep the connection alive.
Engage Beyond Work:
Expand your network by attending conferences, local events, or cross-sector discussions where conversations feel more relaxed. Volunteering or joining professional associations can also help you build connections organically with people who share your values and interests.
If you are working in an international organisation, being intentional applies even more
Put yourself out there. Send the email or the text message—the worst that can happen is nothing, and you simply move on.