You probably have more people in your network than you think. Your network can be informal and include people you know outside of work.
People in your network that can help you progress your career include:
your friends and family
people you know from work, volunteering or school
people you know on social media
recruiters and employers
members of clubs or teams you're in
The people in your network can help you:
find out about jobs, apprenticeships or training schemes
learn about a career or company
get recommended for a job or grow your reputation
find ways to get work experience
get advice and support
Networking can feel intimidating at the start. If you feel nervous or shy, ask the person you’re talking to something about themselves. It takes the pressure off you and shows that you're interested in them.
Always follow up networking with an action. If you're given a name to contact, do it. Following up shows people that you’re motivated, confident and keen.
One of the biggest ways your network can help is by giving you information and advice.
You can ask members of your network:
if they know someone who works in the career you’re interested in
whether they know anyone who is currently hiring
the best ways to look for vacancies
how they got their job
Be clear about what you want and start by asking for something small and realistic. The easier you make it for them, the more likely they are to help you.
Networking works both ways. It’s a good idea to show that you also have something to offer.
For example, if you see someone asking for advice, offer to help them if you can. It could be as simple as sending them a link to an article online.
Online networking is a good way to meet people, especially if you’re nervous about doing it in person.
You can find people to connect with online on social media, LinkedIn, community forums or special interest groups.
These places help you build your network, develop a reputation for being helpful and show you're good at what you do.
You could build up your network by going to events such as:
careers and job fairs
industry events, talks and conferences
college open days
specialist events
self-employed or business workshops
You can check for networking events near you on social media or in your local library.
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/careers-advice/networking
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3/