Do you have the right network for this phase of your life?

Over the last five years of writing this blog, I have written multiple posts about networking. A lot has changed since I wrote my previous posts on networking. The pandemic affected a lot of our networks drastically. The truth is that we still need our social and professional networks to thrive. As we gear up for the  
 
In this blog post, we will examine our current networks with the help of three questions as we look to rebuild them.  
 
#1: How have your networks looked in the past? 
A great start to refreshing your networks is to think back to the past. Typically, your networks have played an essential role in your personal well-being and professional success. Thinking about the people in your networks, how you connected with them, and how helpful they were will help you derive insights. There are valuable lessons that can show you what you want to continue and the things you want to change.  
 
Strategies to consider 

• Reflect on the most valuable people in your social and professional networks 
• Write down the networks that have helped you and how they were influential in the past 

 
#2: Who are the people in your professional and social network currently supporting you?  
After we have looked at our networks in the past, it is an excellent time to take stock of your current reality. Thinking about your existing network will help you celebrate your work and identify where you might want to build something new.  
 
Strategies to consider 

• Write down the people in your networks 
• Write down areas where you wish you had support  

 
#3: How do you plan to build your dream network?  
Building your network is something you can influence fully. We all need great networks that inspire us, provide new perspectives, help us focus on our goals, develop our strengths, motivate us, and give us opportunities to give back to others. This is a great time to revive or make new connections. 
 
Strategies to consider 

• Write down steps you want to take with regard to networking 
• Put yourself in spaces where you can meet people or join existing networks 

 
Final Thoughts: MC's Story 
After speaking at a conference, I realized how much my networks have changed in the last three years. In addition to the global pandemic, I had a baby in 2020, and my Reflecting on my networks helped me see that I am really missing some core elements that my network has provided me in the past.  
 
Great Resources 
For more tips and resources, check out my other blog posts on networking: 

• Build your support community 
• How to build and maintain strong relationships in a busy world 
• How to recharge your professional networks 
• How to build a professional network