How can I build a better network inside my current company?

When we think of networking, the image that often comes to mind is attending conferences, industry meetups, or connecting with people outside of our organization. But what about the relationships you cultivate inside your company? Internal networking is just as important - perhaps even more so - for your long-term success.

Why Does Internal Networking Matter?

Internal networking is about more than just getting to know your colleagues better; it’s a powerful strategy to enhance your visibility, gather critical information, and influence decisions. Here’s why it matters:

1. Breaking Through Silos: Information tends to flow within silos, and if you can connect with people across different departments, you can gain access to key insights that may otherwise be hidden. This "insider" information can give you a strategic advantage when planning your next move.

2. Cross-Functional Buy-In: Whether you’re leading an initiative or spearheading a new project, getting cross-functional support is crucial. Internal networking helps you build relationships with colleagues in other functions, making it easier to secure their backing when it counts.

3. Building Influence for Future Roles: If you're eyeing a promotion or a bigger role, internal connections become your hidden allies. Decision-makers often rely on informal input from people across the organization, many of whom you may not have met yet. Building those relationships now can pay off later.

4. Better Strategic Planning: A broader understanding of how other departments operate can strengthen your own strategic thinking. Knowing the priorities and challenges of other teams allows you to create more resilient, well-rounded plans that align with the overall company goals.

Who Should Be on Your Internal Networking Radar?

To effectively build your internal network, you need to think beyond your immediate team and consider three key dimensions:

- Horizontally: Reach out to colleagues in other departments, especially those you don’t work with on a regular basis. Understanding what’s happening across the company broadens your perspective and keeps you informed.

- Vertically: Consider up-and-coming leaders who might shape the future direction of the company. You can also build relationships with skip-level leaders (those who are above your boss), as long as you can do so without creating political tension.

- Adjacent: Look for strategic advisors to top executives, influential consultants, or key vendors who may have insights into the broader business strategy. These relationships can be just as valuable in understanding the big picture and aligning your own work.

How Often Should You Connect?

To keep these relationships alive, regular check-ins are essential. But what does “regular” look like?

- If you already have occasional interactions with influential people, aim to meet with them every two months.

- If there are leaders you rarely interact with, consider scheduling a check-in every six months. These meetings don’t need to be long, but consistency is key.

When Is the Best Time to Start?

The best time to start internal networking is as a new hire, when you're naturally getting to know the organization. But if you've been with the company for a while, don't worry - the second-best time to start is right now.

How Do You Prepare for These Conversations?

Before you request a meeting, make sure you're prepared. These meetings shouldn’t feel like an obligation for the other person. Here's how to ensure they’re valuable for both of you:

1. Set a Clear Agenda: Outline what you want to learn—whether it’s their key performance indicators (KPIs), strategic priorities, or challenges they’re facing. Show genuine interest in their work and goals.

2. Offer Value: Think about what insights or support you can offer in return. What knowledge can you share from your department that may help them achieve their goals?

Tend to Your Internal Network

Like any relationship, your internal network needs regular attention to grow and thrive. It might feel awkward at first to ask another leader for a “strategic check-in,” but the benefits will far outweigh the discomfort. In fact, many of my clients tell me they wish they had started an internal networking routine much earlier in their careers.

So, don’t wait until you need something to start building these connections. Start today - and you’ll see how much these relationships can help you expand your influence and career potential.