Networking? Is that relevant for me?
In principle, every woman could answer this question with a resounding yes! However, many are unaware of the opportunities that come with building and maintaining a strong network.

Networking – The Key to Success for Women
As Nicole Riggers puts it, it’s about “women becoming much more aware of their collective power and using it.” Or, in the words of Dr. Franca Parianen Lesemann: “When we come together, we all gain more.”

“Help, I don’t have a network and I don’t know how to build one.” / “Nonsense – then just start building one!”
This provocative title of a video event with communication expert Susan Saß in the herCAREER Academy perfectly sums up the importance of networking. According to Susan, having a network is invaluable – especially “in the long run.”

The DUP UNTERNEHMER:innen Magazine highlights the benefits of networking:

  • It can open up new career opportunities, training programs, or mentoring through connections.

  • Sharing knowledge and experiences enhances personal and professional growth.

  • Networks increase visibility—whether through recommendations or by showcasing one’s work.

  • Most importantly, empowering women through networking contributes to gender equality.

  • Clearly, there are plenty of good reasons for women to engage actively in networking.

How to Start?
The first question should always be: “What do I want to achieve?” Whether it’s career development, knowledge exchange, or support, a woman should define her goals before diving in. Having a clear objective helps maintain focus and connect with the right people.

Next, relationship-building is key. Simply collecting contacts isn’t enough. It’s essential to nurture those connections—stay engaged, maintain contact, and actively contribute to the network.

The Power of Mutual Support
Helping one another within a network leads to greater visibility and recognition of individual achievements. And in the end, networking creates business and career opportunities—helping women access job offers, new projects, and collaborations.

Last year, I wrote about a Harvard Business Review study addressing the unique challenges women face in networking. The study emphasized the importance of informal networks—not just for career advancement but also for fostering trust-based relationships with mutual support. It also recommended that companies introduce Network Sponsor Programs to support women in their professional growth.

At herCAREER, networking is everything. This becomes particularly visible at our annual herCAREER Expo in the fall, but also every single day through our incredible community.

We all need support, solidarity, and connection—not only for our personal growth but also to move closer to our shared goal of #GenderEquality. We rise by lifting others!

herVIEW - Natascha Hoffner

Posted by Natascha Hoffner, Founder & CEO of herCAREER | Recipient of the FTAfelicitas Award from Femtec.Alumnae e.V. | LinkedIn Top Voice 2020 | Editor of the “Women of the Year” books published by Callwey Verlag#
published on LinkedIn on 30.01.2025

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