10 ways to build your network

When I was told I needed to build my network, I was immediately struck with fear of having to cold call and sell myself. I pictured those breakfast meetings where you have to stand up and say what you do and swap business cards over stale croissants at 7.30 in the morning (Oh, yes I have been to many of those events).

“No way”, I told myself, “I can’t do that.” It wasn’t until someone explained to me what building your network actually meant and it had nothing to do with cold calling or selling myself.

Building your network means purposefully connecting with people, organisations and topics that interest you and can help you in your mission and where you can add value to others.

Why build your network?

For women stepping into senior leadership, your network is more than a list of contacts; it’s a support system, a source of ideas, and often the thing that opens doors to opportunities you might not even know exist.

It’s easy to think “I don’t have time” or “I’m not good at putting myself out there,” especially if visibility feels uncomfortable. But the truth is, a strong network does much of the heavy lifting for you.

When you’re connected with the right people:

You hear about opportunities early.
You’re recommended for projects, panels, and roles.
You gain perspective and advice from others who’ve walked the path ahead.
You learn how other leaders balance ambition and family life.

For women in FE aiming for senior leadership, networking isn’t about being seen for the sake of it; it’s about being known for what you stand for and the difference you make.

Deal With the Visibility Issue

“I don’t like being on social media” is something I hear all the time, and I can relate – this was me many years ago.

But visibility doesn’t have to mean constant posting or self-promotion. It’s about presence. People can’t support or recommend you if they don’t know who you are or what you care about.

Try reframing visibility as sharing your professional interests and values. That could be as simple as:

Commenting thoughtfully on someone else’s post.
Sharing an article that aligns with your values.
Talking about something you’ve learned in your role.

You don’t need to be loud, just consistent and authentic.

10 ways to build your network right now

Here are some ways that you can strengthen your network right now:

Build connections inside and outside your organisation. Internal networks help you understand how things work and get noticed by decision-makers. External networks bring fresh ideas, different perspectives, and can open up your next opportunity.
Find your “networking allies.” Connect with a few colleagues or peers who also want to build their network. Attend events together and introduce one another to new contacts, it takes the awkwardness away.
Ask for introductions. People often enjoy connecting others. If you see someone you’d like to meet, ask a mutual contact to introduce you.
Attend worthwhile events. Be strategic. Not all conferences and CPD sessions are equal. Choose events that help you build useful relationships or deepen your understanding of your sector. Take the time to talk to people, not just attend sessions and leave.
Be in the know. Follow FE leaders, policy influencers, and experts whose thinking challenges or inspires you. Read sector news, join webinars, and stay curious. Being well-informed helps you contribute meaningfully to discussions, both online and in meetings.
Share your voice. Apply to speak at events or panels, even if it scares you a little. The more visible you are, the more opportunities find you. You can also start smaller, host a webinar, chair a discussion, or write an article about something you’ve learnt.
Show up online. LinkedIn is the easiest place to start. Keep your profile up to date, engage with others, and post occasionally about topics you care about. Remember, people connect with authenticity, not polish.
Give before you get. Offer help, share resources, or make introductions for others. Networking works best when it’s reciprocal.
Say yes to projects that align with your goals. If a project helps you learn, stretch, or connect with new people, say yes. Even short-term involvement can expand your network and reputation in ways you don’t expect.
Keep in touch. Relationships fade if you only connect once. Drop people a message when you see something relevant to them or simply check in occasionally.

Final thoughts

Building your network isn’t about collecting contacts. It’s about nurturing relationships that will support and challenge you as you grow.

For women stepping into senior leadership, your network isn’t a “nice to have.” It’s your foundation. The thing that reminds you you’re not doing this alone.