Career Support Group Meetup #3: Networking for Career Growth: Build Meaningful Connections
I'm beyond excited (sounds weird, but I really am ), to share the highlights from our latest Career Support Group Coaching session, where we explored how to build meaningful professional connections in our session: Networking for Career Growth. With plenty of reflection, practical tools, and peer exchange, the evening was both energizing and deeply insightful.
🔍 What We Explored Together – with Actionable Tips
📌 Why Networking Matters Today
We opened by looking at how networking has evolved: in a fast-paced world filled with online events, AI, and shifting job markets, real human connection is more valuable than ever.
Networking is not about impressing others—it’s about:
Offering value in a conversation
Being honest and vulnerable
Supporting others rather than seeking approval
🎯 Takeaway Insight: Networking isn’t just about job hunting. It’s about building a circle that keeps you informed, inspired, and connected to new opportunities.
📌 The 3 Levels of Networking
We explored three progressive levels of networking: Beginner: Build your profile, join groups, start connecting Standard: Post, attend events, reach out intentionally Pro: Practice strategic, value-based outreach and partnerships
🎯 Takeaway Insight: No matter your current level, there’s always a next step—start where you are and keep growing.
📌 Positioning & Goal Setting We focused on clarifying who you are, what you offer, and what you need.
Participants reflected on:
Their professional journey
What energizes them
The values guiding their career choices
Participants Quote💬 "My journey started in teaching, and I realized I’m good at breaking down complex ideas. Now I want to connect with people in adult education."
🎯 Takeaway Insight: Your story is your superpower—but first, you need to find it. Reflecting on your journey helps you own it with confidence and connect with others authentically.
📌 Exploring Your Network This was about identifying potential collaborators, mentors, and allies.
We asked:
Who can help you?
Who can you help?
Who already reached your goal?
Who shares your path?
Who inspires you?
Participants Quote 💬 "This call inspired me to look up a local professional association’s page—they have a Stammtisch, and I already RSVP’d!"
🎯 Takeaway Insight: Your next opportunity might already be in your extended network—you just have to look with intention.
📌 Connecting Effectively
We shared a 3-step approach to making meaningful connections:
Perception: Acknowledge something specific about the person
Impact: Share why it matters to you
Proposal: Offer a way to connect or give value
🎯 Takeaway Insight: Authentic outreach creates trust—show appreciation, be curious, and offer value when you connect.
📌 Turning Networking Into a Habit
Networking isn’t just a one-time action—it’s a consistent practice. We encouraged participants to integrate it into their weekly rhythm with small, intentional steps.
🎯 Takeaway Insight: Consistency builds connection—small actions over time create a strong and supportive network.
💬 Community Insights
The session closed with a warm exchange of resources, suggestions, and support:
💬 "I’m going to engage more with my Learning & Development community." 💬 "Writing a LinkedIn post about this event right away!"
💬 „Thank you for this valuable session!“
📅 Next Event: April 29th, 6 PM CET
We’re here to keep building momentum together. If this session sparked ideas, connections, or questions, reach out to us directly.
Aleksandra Czekalska and me are happy to chat one-on-one or support you however we can.
Join our Community and be part of the journey:
🟠 Career Support Group Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/career-support-group/
