How to develop a professional network in Melbourne
Expand your professional network in Melbourne
Melbourne's booming economy is on track to continue growing over the next five years. If you're looking for work in Melbourne, you're sure to find many opportunities. Remember the old adage "it's not what you know but who you know". Expanding your professional network will be a worthwhile investment in the long run, so here are some tips to help you do just that.
Your professional network starts at your workplace. Participating in professional meetings, team building and group educational activities can be a great way to grow your network in your city. When it comes to professional networking, your workplace is an easy and convenient place to meet people.
Keep an eye out for online sites that can help you further cultivate your professional network once you're settled in Australia.
Meetup, for example, is a well-recognized site where members can mingle with different networking groups in Melbourne. You can register for free and search for "professional networking". By limiting the geographical location you can filter your search to a certain area of Melbourne. You will be able to develop your professional network through various entrepreneurial events and meetings, events that are more or less specific, for example an event for women in entrepreneurship or leadership networking.
Check out Eventbrite, another popular site that offers a variety of professional parties, such as nursing open houses, engineering parties, business lunches or "Code Like A Girl" events. Fantastic professional parties are held at co-working spaces that are open to all. So pay attention to their online sites and social media pages.
You've probably heard of LinkedIn, that very popular platform; you could call it a "professional Facebook." You can connect with people in your organization or search for people who are in the industries that interest you. There is also a feature that allows you to make your profile visible in terms of job search, which allows companies to connect directly to you for work.
Don't underestimate the importance of working on your LinkedIn profile and ensuring regular updates. This is one of the most popular recruiting platforms to land a job, get noticed or connect professionally with interesting people.
Tips for networking in Melbourne
Here are some networking tips that will help you get the most out of an event or experience. When it comes to professional networking, always remember to choose the environment that best suits your natural strengths and abilities. If you tend to be shy, choose more intimate activities or gatherings that allow you to talk one-on-one with people, such as speed networking. This way, your skills will come out as you feel more comfortable.
Be sure to listen to others and not just talk about yourself. Don't be afraid to ask questions that are out of the ordinary to stand out and forge deeper relationships. A real human connection is always helpful in making lasting and serious professional relationships. Finally, don't forget to follow up with your new contacts, it's a personal touch that leaves a good impression and will make you a memorable person.
