I have been working in the tech for 26 years now in various roles and across different industries. I’ve learned a lot in my career but there are several things I have learned along the way that have become important to my career growth and that I would recommend to anyone getting started:

1. Build and grow your network - This is the most important. It’s not what you know but who. Be intentional about building a network and cultivating it. Connect with your network to add value and not just when you need something. Track who you are connected with and the last time you were in touch with them. LinkedIn is a great platform for building a network within your industry or outside of it.
2. Think about the outcome / how you want to live - Most people take a career out of interest or salary. I recommend thinking about what life looks like at the top of the ladder in your field. Is that the life you want to live? If not, what is the right level for you to climb, or is there another ladder more suited for your outcome?
3. Find a mentor - Mentors provide perspective. I think it’s helpful to have a mentor within your organization, but I think it’s better to have one outside that could provide broader perspective across all areas of life.
4. Mentor others - Be a river and not reservoir. In other words, once you have received value, make sure you are paying it forward to help other people grow.
5. Go ‘All In’ - Whatever path you choose (and there will likely be several), know what it looks like to go ‘All In’ and creating as much value as possible. Be your best self and find ways to continue to grow so you can be of more value to the people you work with and your organization. An ‘All In’ mindset changes the game and can expand beyond your career.

These are all things I’m still working on 26 years into my career. They continue to be helpful and shape the next steps on my journey.

What are your thoughts?

There is a saying that your net worth is equal to your network. There is also a saying that it’s not what you know but who that makes the difference. Here are 3 reasons networking is important to me:

1. It opens doors to opportunities - Networking opens opportunities to connect with like - minded people and people someone knows you perhaps you should also know. Most jobs and business opportunities are found through networking versus submitting a resume. With that, it’s always important to say hi to people and keep your options open. You never know where a conversation might lead.
2. It opens doors to opportunities to help others - Sometimes a conversation will lead to an opportunity to help someone else solve a problem based on who you know, or your skillset. Networking goes both ways in that you can help others move further along their journey. I think networking is circular in that way and can be seen as a giving and receiving experience.
3. It’s fun - Building networks is fun. You meet new people, and we are all relational. It’s an attribute humans are born with and we all have a need to connect and find our tribe. With networking, we’re fulfilling a deeper emotional need and in some ways, I think it can lead to improved health.

Overall, networking doesn’t have to be about business, although, that’s how it’s often thought about. Networking could be starting a conversation with someone at a local coffee shop, grocery store, and just living your life. In its simplest form, networking is about connecting with others.