By Lisa Saul, MD, TRUST President
Want to make the most of spring’s networking opportunities? Review the following tips and practice your new networking skills at the TRUST Forum on April 11!
- Effective networking begins by setting a clear objective. Are you aiming to connect with a particular individual or are you curious about a specific organization? Are you seeking a mentor or looking to deepen relationships with current connections? Be open about your intentions to pave the way for solidifying connections.
- Be a connector. Your ability to introduce colleagues who can benefit from each other’s expertise not only fosters stronger relationships but also positions you as a valuable member of your network. Our Forum on April 11 is an event where you may find yourself seated with people you know and some you don’t know. This is a great time to get to know your tablemates better.
- Seek connections. While you’re connecting others, don’t hesitate to ask for introductions. Queries like, “Who else should I connect with in the health care space?” can open doors to valuable connections that come with a stamp of credibility from mutual contacts.
- Update your online profiles. If you have not already done so, ensure your TRUST online profile is current so other TRUST members can find you to connect. Keep your LinkedIn profile updated and active as it’s often the first place new connections go to learn about you.
- Participate in events. The TRUST hosts a variety of events, providing an array of networking settings, whether you prefer large or small gatherings. Be sure to regularly review our calendar of events, including our May 1 event, “Elevate Your Career and Your Life: Networking for Growth” led by long-time TRUST member Susan Schuster.
- Get involved. The TRUST offers many volunteer options where you can collaborate with other women in health care who share your goals and professional interests. You can find out more about our volunteer opportunities here.
- Top 10 tips for networking. Want even more networking tips? Our Forum committee created a list of top 10 networking tips you can easily use at the Forum and beyond.
Focusing on these networking strategies can expand your professional network and build a mutually beneficial community of support and knowledge. Networking opportunities can empower your career for years to come. I hope to connect with you at the Forum and several of our future events!
Lisa Saul, MD, serves as the 2024 TRUST President and is a wife, mother, physician and women’s health expert. Lisa is passionate about women in leadership and health equity. She is also dedicated to improving health outcomes for birthing people, with a particular focus on women of color. She was honored as a Mpls.St. Paul Magazine Top Doctor in 2022 and Minnesota Monthly Top Doctor in 2020.