TIN #054 - Rise Above the Rest: Why Internal Networking is Your Career Superpower!
Dominate Your Workplace with Internal Connections!
Hey there, it's Greg!
Today, we're diving into the world of internal networking – networking within your current company or organization.
Now, you might be thinking:
"Why would I network inside the company I already work for?"
Stick around, and I'll explain why it's essential, especially if you want to get promoted at your company.
This issue takes about three minutes to read.
What Is Internal Networking?
At its core, internal networking involves building relationships with colleagues and leaders within your organization.
Just like external networking helps you connect with people outside your company, internal networking focuses on connecting with individuals inside your workplace.
It might sound a bit intimidating, but trust me, it's simpler than you think.
Actually, internal networking is easier than external networking.
Why You Need Internal Networking
Okay, let's talk about the big "WHY."
Why should you bother networking within your organization?
Two major reasons: recognition for your accomplishments and opportunities for career growth.
First, let's talk about recognition.
Your hard work and achievements might be known within your immediate team, but if you want to progress in your career, others throughout the organization should know what you bring to the table.
If you remain a well-kept secret, your chances of getting promoted or moving into new roles diminish.
Second, let's address career growth.
If you aspire to take on more significant responsibilities, get promoted, or explore new opportunities within your organization, you need to be on the radar of key decision-makers.
People prefer to work with those they know and trust, and internal networking is your ticket to building those relationships.
I saw a post on LinkedIn this week, from Emma May who is helping high-achieving professionals attract the right opportunities through personal branding.
She tells the story below about one of her clients who was passed over for promotion because people at the company didn’t know who he was:
Here’s Emma’s original post on LinkedIn.
Avoid the "My Work Speaks for Itself" Trap
A common mistake I made early in my career (and one you should avoid) is thinking that your work alone will get you noticed.
While your immediate boss might recognize your efforts, others outside your team won't unless you actively build relationships with them.
Don't wait for your work to speak for itself; go out and let others know about your achievements and the value you bring to the table.
Start Building Your Internal Network
Now that you know why internal networking is crucial let's explore how to get started.
Identify Who You Want to Connect With: Think about leaders, executives, or colleagues in other departments whom you admire or have common interests with. These are the people you want to build relationships with. Since you already work for the same company, you are more likely to connect with them than someone who cold emails them from outside the company.
Make the Connection: Reach out via email or in person (if possible) and ask if you could have 15 minutes of their time to ask one question about their career success. This low-impact approach makes it easier for them to say yes. Again, they know you aren’t some stranger from outside the company so you are a lower risk conversation for them.
The One Question to Ask: During your meeting, ask them about the key factor or element that contributed the most to their career success. Listen actively to their response. Think of ways your work overlaps with theirs and how you might help them.
Share Your Aspirations: If they ask about your goals or career path, be ready with a concise and confident response. Share your interests and ambitions within the company.
Follow Up and Maintain Relationships: Send a thank-you note after the meeting, and if they provided any advice, try it out, and follow up with them later to discuss the results. Building a meaningful connection requires ongoing communication.
If you want to hear or see more details on how to network internally, check out the audio version or the video version of this newsletter.
Stand Out and Prepare for Future Opportunities
By networking within your organization, you set yourself apart from the crowd.
While it might not guarantee an immediate promotion, it lays the groundwork for recognition and potential career growth.
Remember, internal networking is a valuable skill to practice, even if you aren't actively looking for new opportunities.
Get comfortable having networking conversations inside your company and you’ll be ready to have them outside your company when the time comes.
Take a step out of your comfort zone, start building those internal connections, and watch as new doors open for you in your organization.
Before You Go
I have one question for you:
If I agreed to be your personal networking coach for a month, what would you want me to help you with?
Drop your answer in the comments or in an email
Until next week, keep networking,
Greg