Networking for Executive Assistants: Who Should You Reach Out to?

Networking is a major part of an executive assistant’s role. Not only is networking essential for career success, but it’s a way to strengthen your relationships in the industry. Building adept networking skills is one thing, but knowing who to network with is another. Who should you network with as an executive assistant? Here’s how executive assistants can start making the right connections to secure the success of their careers.  

Business Networking Made Simple

Networking can seem daunting at first. For emerging professionals, this is especially true. There are tons of new faces, names, roles, and networking techniques to get acquainted with. Business networking doesn’t have to be hard. In fact, there are a few skills that may prove useful at your next networking event. 

Before you decide who to talk to, it’s important to know how to start:

Set a Goal

Whether you’re looking for a job, or are looking to expand opportunities within your current network, make sure you know why you’re networking. Set a goal before entering a networking space. This way, you’ll know who to connect with, and where to focus your attention. 

Networking events can get overwhelming, and it’s important to have a goal in mind beforehand.

Bring Business Cards

Don’t forget to bring your contact information! Let people know who you are, your level of experience, and your current career objectives. You’re more likely to stand out from the crowd if you come to the event prepared. Contacts will also know where to reach you.

Follow Up With Contacts

Don’t wait to follow up with contacts. Or worse yet, don’t wait to contact them until you need something. 

Send them an email or message shortly after the event has ended. Be sure to thank them for their time. You can even mention specific talking points that were discussed during your meeting. This will increase the likelihood of them remembering you, and maybe even land you a new job opportunity.

Who You Should Have in Your Business Network

Now that you know how to successfully network, it’s important to know who you should have in your business network. This is who executive assistants should reach out to when making new connections:

Job Recruiters or Talent Acquisition

If there is a recruiter in your field of interest, it’s a good idea to make yourself known to them. Recruiters and talent acquisition are responsible for finding talent within their company. This is the first face you’ll see when being interviewed for a job, You’ll want to have them in your corner.

Major Executives and Managers

Of course, if there are executives and managers that appeal to your industry, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. You never know who’s in need of an assistant, or what potential job prospects you could land in the future. Your confidence and self-assuredness will shine through, too.

Other Executive Assistants

Having a business network of like-minded executive assistants will prove extremely valuable when advancing your career. Executive assistants should have each other’s backs! Utilize other assistants in your field when looking for job advice or potential job opportunities. 

Brand Ambassadors or HR Reps

Ambassadors or HR reps will typically appear at job fairs or conferences. Similar to job recruiters, HR reps or ambassadors are often the first faces people see before applying for a role. HR reps are often responsible for onboarding new employees, too. Making a good first impression could help you develop your career.

CEOs or Founders

Though CEOs or company founders often don’t participate in the hiring process, they certainly have influence. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to major players in the industry! This could benefit your career in unimaginable ways.

Become an Executive Assistant With an Extensive Network

Building an extensive business network as an executive assistant doesn’t have to be hard. This is why ASAP is here to help. We offer tons of valuable training resources to help executive assistants and administrators thrive in their careers. Check them out and become an ASAP member today!