Five years into working in staffing, after transitioning from a career in hospitality, I’ve seen firsthand what drives career growth. It’s not just technical skills or impressive resumes — though those are important. The real game changers are networking and mentorship.
Early on, I believed that being good at your job was enough. But time and experience taught me that who you know, and how you nurture those relationships, can open doors that hard work alone might not. So, whether you’re starting to build your network from scratch or looking to level up your career, here are some lessons and practical insights that can make all the difference.
BUILD A NETWORK THAT WORKS FOR YOU
Throughout my staffing career, I’ve witnessed how the right connections can transform opportunities. Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or adding random people on LinkedIn. It’s about building genuine, mutually beneficial relationships.
I remember working with a candidate who had all the right experience but struggled to get interviews. After some conversations, it turned out they weren’t leveraging their network. They assumed their work spoke for itself. Only after they started attending industry events and reaching out to former colleagues did things change. Within a few months, they had multiple offers. It reminded me that visibility matters — not just what you know, but who knows you.
Networking doesn’t have to mean walking into rooms full of strangers and handing out business cards. It can be as simple as engaging thoughtfully on LinkedIn, reconnecting with former colleagues, or even volunteering for causes that matter to you. Here are three tips to expand your professional network:
- Use LinkedIn the right way.
LinkedIn isn’t just an online resume. Take some time to share articles, comment on industry topics, and connect with professionals who inspire you. Don’t be afraid of cold outreach — the worst case is they ignore you. Best case, you make a great connection. Either way, your life goes on, and your coffee still tastes the same the next morning.
- Reach out to people you already know.
Send a message to former classmates, fellow alumni, friends, acquaintances you’ve made through industry groups or online forums — these are people already in your network who are probably happy to help. Maybe someone is happy to put you in touch with one of their contacts or extend an invitation to a group they’re in. At the very least, you’ll make someone’s day.
- Volunteer for causes you care about.
Giving back can connect you with like-minded professionals. Plus, volunteering often shows leadership skills and a commitment to values beyond the bottom line. Look for opportunities where you can leverage your skills to do the most good. For example, volunteering to help with fundraising can help you build a strong professional network in finance.
Remember that each conversation, each connection, could be the stepping stone to your next opportunity.
FIND MENTORS (AND KNOW WHAT YOU NEED FROM THEM)
If networking opens doors, mentorship helps you walk through them with confidence. The right mentor can provide guidance, share hard-won lessons, and introduce you to new opportunities. But here’s the thing — not all mentorships work out. And that’s okay.
Early in my career, I thought I needed a mentor who shared a similar background. I sought out someone who fit that mold, but the mentorship didn’t click. Why? I came to realize they didn’t have the network or experience relevant to the areas I needed to grow. I also realized I wasn’t prepared for this type of relationship — I treated it like a one-way street instead of a partnership.
That experience taught me a crucial lesson: The best mentors aren’t always who you expect. Sometimes, they’re the people who challenge you the most or have entirely different perspectives. Some of the most impactful advice I’ve received has come from unexpected places — casual conversations with colleagues, senior leaders nearing retirement, and peers who brought fresh perspectives.
Mentorship works best when you’re an active participant. Come prepared with questions, share your goals, and think about how you can add value in return. It’s not just about finding someone who can help you — it’s about building a relationship where both people grow.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Networking and mentorship aren’t merely buzzwords. They’re powerful tools for career growth. But like any tool, they only work if you know how to use them. Build a network that supports and challenges you. Find mentors who push you to grow and show up prepared to learn.
Your career path is uniquely yours, but you don’t have to walk it alone. Surround yourself with the right people, and you’ll be amazed at the doors that open.
