PROFESSIONAL NETWORK

Do you cringe at the thought of attending a networking event, wondering if you’ll end up standing alone awkwardly in the corner with your drink? Scrolling through TikTok pretending you’re doing something ‘really important’. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Building a professional network in London as a Millennial or Gen Z can be daunting, but it’s really valuable for career growth and success and it’s much easier than you think. Here are some tips and strategies for building a professional network without the awkward mingling.

Join a Club

Remember the clubs you joined in school or university? Well, they’re not just for education. There are many clubs in London catering to different professions and interests, and joining one can be a great way to network with like-minded individuals. You can join a book club, a yoga club, or even a wine club, and connect with professionals from different fields. Or if you’re looking for a more professional environment to hang out with other people your age in your industry keep reading!

Attend Meetups

Named the people platform – where interests become friendships. Meetup groups are an excellent way to network with people who share your interests or passions. There are plenty of Meetups in London catering to different industries and professions, so it’s easy to find one that suits you. From tech events to fashion meetups, you can attend a variety of events and meet people from different backgrounds. Join the people who use Meetup to meet new people, learn new things, find support, get out of their comfort zones, and pursue their passions together.

Volunteer for a Cause

If you’re passionate about a cause, volunteering can be an excellent way to build a professional network while doing something you love. From helping out at a charity event to volunteering at a local soup kitchen, there are plenty of opportunities to meet people who share your values and interests. Volunteering may require a greater time commitment than other activities, but the benefits are undeniable. By working alongside other volunteers or supervisors, you have the opportunity to form stronger and more meaningful relationships. It takes away the pressure and hopefully the small talk. Whether or not you’re volunteering within your industry, you truly never know whom you will meet.  Not only could those you meet be well-connected, but they might have some great advice from all different backgrounds! So it’s not just rewarding for yourself but potentially for your career too!

Get ‘Social’

Gen Z and Millennials are now the fastest-growing global audience demographic on LinkedIn. Every minute, millennials and Gen Z make 9000 new connections. This may not come as a surprise, but it really shows how the power of these platforms is worth harnessing. Social media is a powerful tool for building a professional network. Platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter allow you to connect with professionals in your industry and grow in your career through industry advice, job posts and inspirational talks. Other social media accounts such as Instagram can also help you showcase your skills through creativity. Don’t be afraid to reach out and connect with people, but remember to keep it professional.

Attend Conferences

Attending a conference can be a great way to network with professionals in your industry or field. Conferences often feature keynote speakers, workshops, and networking events, giving you plenty of opportunities to connect with other professionals. Plus, you’ll take a break from the office, and get out of your comfort zone all whilst learning something new and gaining insights into the latest trends and developments in your industry.

Maintaining Your Professional Network

Once you’ve built your professional network, it’s important to maintain those connections. Here are some tips for staying in touch:

• Reach out regularly to stay top of mind

• Attend events and conferences regularly to maintain connections

• Follow up after networking events to keep the conversation going

Building a professional network doesn’t have to be boring or awkward. By joining a club, volunteering, attending Meetups, getting social, and attending conferences, you can build a network that’s fun, rewarding and exciting. Remember, networking is not just about exchanging business cards, but also about building relationships and making meaningful connections. So, go out there, mingle, and have fun building your professional network!

If you’re looking for opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and enhance your social and professional life in London, Knightox is here to help. We are a members club that specialises in providing curated experiences and events for young professionals in London. Our reach extends beyond London, as we offer a range of experiences and access to brands worldwide.

But more importantly, Knightox is a community run by us, for us! By joining Knightox, you’ll have access to a wide range of events, experiences, and offers, as well as the opportunity to connect with other young professionals from different industries and interests. So why not start building your professional network with Knightox! Check out the full list of benefits here.