As one progresses through their career, they’ll come to find that forming a network is key. From finding new job opportunities to simply having an exciting group of individuals to work with, these professional relationships can be of great benefit to both parties.

How Can One Begin Building Professional Relationships?

Starting out in your industry can feel lonely at first, as it feels like everyone has already formed their own clique to which gaining an invite is nearly impossible. However, as newcomers emerge on the scene, it is quite literally necessary for new connections to form, giving you a valid reason to reach out to others and begin building professional relationships of your own. The most straightforward way to do so is by connecting with those at your current job or university, using the industry contacts you have to your advantage. Naturally, you’ll grow close to particular individuals and form bonds with coworkers simply because they are easy to get along with and not necessarily because you are looking to gain career growth out of that relationship. However, it would be hard to deny the benefits that can come from making friends with higher-up individuals in your company or industry.

As professional as a workplace might seem, many workers can attest to the gossip culture that sometimes runs rampant in the office, sometimes just as a means to get some conversations going. In your attempts to build professional relationships, however, it is recommended that you steer clear of this quick attempt at making friends and rather keep conversations at a professional level so as to avoid negative commentary circling back to the wrong individual. Through doing this, you’ll establish yourself as a trustworthy individual who is cautious with their words yet open and friendly to other conversations.

In the workplace, it is also common for workplace friendships to slowly dissolve once a coworker takes a job with a different company. Transitioning from effortless contact with them to barely any can make you lose contact fairly quickly. If you wish to keep a professional relationship going, it will take some effort after they leave. Social media makes it easier than ever before to keep in contact, but you may have to take the lead and reach out if you wish to contact them from time to time. This will not only benefit your friendship but will keep you at the forefront of their mind if they hear of any job opportunities in their circle that would suit you well.