5 Tips on Networking Your Way to Success in the Health and Medical Industry

Networking matters – no doubt you’ve heard the adage it’s not what you know, but who you know. Depending on your position there may be some mandatory competencies or qualifications but even when you have all the goods you need to perform a role, your peers may still be the key to helping you shape your career. Read on to find out how to network for success as a health or medical professional.

1. It’s Never Too Early to Start

Don’t assume that because you’re still studying or only in an entry level position you shouldn’t be reaching out to expand your network and start building relationships in your field. While having connections to the influencers and decision makers can definitely help, virtually everyone you meet has networkability – you never know who they know or where they’ll end up working over time!

2. Make It Mutually Beneficial

Networking is based on relationships that are often nurtured and developed over time. It’s important to be natural and offer something back to the person you’re trying to connect with. Touch base with your contacts even when you don’t need them, take an interest in what they are saying, ask them questions and reach out to them when opportunities you think they’ll be interested in arise.

3. Make Friends With Recruiters and HR

Even if you’re not actively looking for a new role right now, you never know what may be around the corner in life. Routinely keep an eye on vacancies in your field and make a note of who manages the recruitment process for your ‘dream job(s)’. Visit www.chandlermacleod.com for current health and medical vacancies and if you see something you like or are ready for a change, consider making an appointment with recruiters who can help find and place you in the type of work you want to do.

4. Interact with Professional Associations

Simply being a member of the governing body or industry association group for your field isn’t always enough. Most of these organisations hold networking functions, workshops and other events – start attending. Not only will they help your professional development, but you never know who you’ll start talking to while you’re there.

5. Don’t Burn Bridges

When you’re leaving a job, always make sure that you finish on good terms and make an effort to stay in semi-regular contact with your colleagues. LinkedIn is a great way to keep the lines of communications open and is a professional alternative to adding them to your personal social network profiles unless there is a genuine friendship element to your relationship.

Even if your peers can’t actively help you with your career goals and aspirations, they can still be valuable contacts. They may know of opportunities that you weren’t aware of, or maybe even be able to introduce you to the people who can help you on your way.

How do you make the most of networking opportunities?