Networking the right way

Most of us professionals understand the value of networking; the problem is that we just don’t do enough of it, or network the right way. That’s why “networking more” — especially in the form of joining new professional associations — is essential for your new year’s resolution.

I’m personally privileged to be part of the Association for Project Management (APM) which is the chartered body for the project profession regional network and recently I have joined the newly formed UAE regional network.

Not long ago, we held a networking event in Dubai with a diverse group of corporate partners, members, Chartered Project Professionals and Fellows.

In this event, we connected, shared ideas and reflected on the strength of our community and its commitment to advancing the profession regionally and globally. I met some quite interesting people and I was honoured to establish a good connection with them.

We are relatively new to the UAE regional association so we held a few shy sessions previously and the connections seemed to develop naturally from these previous events as we’re all eager to network more and in the right way.

However, to continue into 2025, I believe in order to develop your networks, you must develop strategies that will help you both enjoy and benefit from your association.

Here is a list of the strategies you can do to make sure you’re networking ‘the right way’.

1. Networking

We all know that one person in the group who can help us break in. This person was the first to initiate the group formation and can introduce you and provide background information and context so the other members can relate to each other.

However, you shouldn’t rely solely on that one person but instead, you should seek help from others in the group in case the first person get busy with other members and the second person would have had the same career development as you. If you know someone else in the group that also makes you feel comfortable and confident, lean on them to help you expand your networks as well. I usually seek for the lead person as I join the meeting but also find his/her depute to connect with during the meeting.

While you’re expanding your network, remember to seek out quality rather than quantity as this will support your career growth and development.

2. Your commitment

The first few moments during your initial introduction to a new group will almost always be filled with small talk as you figure out who’s who and learn how things work in that group. However, small talk isn’t something to be put off by as it will allow you time to become comfortable within the group and work out the group dynamics.

Don’t make any judgements at your first meeting, instead, reserve judgment and commit to meeting regularly and getting to know your group members as this will help you understand the dynamics of this new committee.

If you’re struggling to connect to people within the group, remind yourself why you joined this committee - to help grow your networks and give back to the profession.

Committing to your growth will help you open new doors that will bring added value to your network.

3. Check your assumptions

Each person will have something different that they will want to gain from these networking events.

It’s possible that some will only want to connect with other senior professionals, while others could be looking to catch up with colleagues or friends.

Check your assumptions as you get to know them before categorising or judging others.

It’s worth stress-testing your perspectives with trusted friends and colleagues before settling on a judgment, especially a negative one.

Even for experienced professionals, it can be uncomfortable to enter a social situation in which it seems like everyone else knows one another, while you’re stuck at making small talk but by following these strategies, you can transform those new contacts into valuable network.

4. Filter and follow up

After your meetings, organise and filter your connections so you can remember your discussions.

Look for natural and professional ways to connect with your network and develop your relationships so your next discussion is deep and meaningful. I normally start to listen to the ongoing group discussions and being engaging by asking questions to learn and reflect on the topic so I can bring value to the network.

Networking is a vital part of professional development in any industry. Your network won’t necessarily help you find a job directly, but it will open doors and help your professional growth. As we start to plan out our professional development for 2025, I look forward to being part of the APM UAE Regional Network to develop my network and raise awareness of project management as a vital profession in the region.