If you're not a natural-born extrovert who thrives on meeting people, the word 'networking' may be enough to bring out a cold sweat. It's likely because you associate it with awkward handshakes, small talk and shameless self-promotion at corporate events. While this type of networking can be valuable, it’s not for everyone and there are other ways teachers can build a valuable professional network and use it to support their careers.
What is a professional network
A professional network is just a formal name for all the connections teachers make in their journey through the profession, generally from their university days onwards. It doesn’t have to be a formal set of contacts, but just a group of professionals you can talk to, bounce ideas off or collaborate with. A strong network can help you grow professionally, find new opportunities and share ideas or resources.
But remember, the most robust professional networks are a continual work in progress; they are not merely formed when job hunting. Here are some tips to help you start developing yours today!
Keep in contact with your uni buddies
While completing your degree, you’ll likely begin to connect with other students completing the same degree as you in workshops and tutorials or on campus. This is a great way to start building your professional network before stepping into the classroom. If you didn’t do that while studying, think about the people you’ve met through classes, during your professional experience placements or previous teaching jobs you’ve held. Don’t be afraid to reach out and see if they would be interested in connecting on LinkedIn. LinkedIn is designed for professional networking and is a great platform to expand your reach, discover new trends and build your reputation. If you’re not on LinkedIn yet or need help to polish your profile to perfection, head to our blog on how to level-up your LinkedIn.
Connect with others at career fairs or PD workshops
Our Teach Queensland events are the perfect opportunity to network and make valuable connections with school leaders and teachers who are currently living and teaching in communities across the state. You can also connect with recruiters and other experts to find out about the opportunities and support available to teachers in Queensland state schools.
Professional development workshops are not only an excellent opportunity to learn, but to also connect with others. Lachlan O’Connell, the Deputy Principal at Oakey State High School can attest to that.
'Some of the best professional development I have had was not the actual PD I was there for, but rather the connections I made with other people while there. This is particularly vital when teaching in rural and remote settings where you might be the only teacher of your discipline at your school—building connections with other people in your region to engage in moderation, shared planning, collegial discussion around how to support students, etc. is invaluable and the best way to develop yourself as a leader of learning in your classroom,' he said.
Follow up with those you connect with during professional development by asking to include them in your LinkedIn network.
Match with a mentor
Mentors are not just for beginning teachers; teachers at all career stages can benefit from them. You may feel awkward, but people are often chuffed that someone respects them enough to ask. Seek out those at your school or community who are considered experts in an area you want or need to develop. Look for someone in a position you aspire to, but remember to consider personality types, feedback style, experience level and trust when considering who your best mentor-match might be.
Experienced Senior Teacher, Hannah Marks from Kenmore State School said she benefited greatly from mentorship as a beginning teacher.
'I’ve had many positive mentoring experiences. When I first graduated, my Head of Curriculum was a wonderful support and mentor. I felt safe and secure asking questions and she was a great sounding board. I also had a supportive teaching team,' she said.
'Building a supportive network (at your school and with fellow graduates/teachers at other schools) can make a significant difference in your professional development. I recommend that you be willing to seek advice, be open to new learning and ask questions. You don’t know what you don’t know.'
Remember, networks are give and take
As the saying goes, if you don't use it, you lose it! And the same goes for your professional networks. Once you’ve built yourself a professional network, you must maintain semi-regular contact to keep them. But don’t just ask for advice, help or connection without adding anything in return. Consider what value you can offer others and seek opportunities to help others, whether that’s tips or strategies that worked for you or simply sharing links to relevant articles. Be generous with your time and effort. Being genuine will go a long way in helping you to make valuable connections and endearing you to others. Don’t forget once you have made connections, you need to nurture them. This means following up with the people you meet, expressing appreciation for their advice, liking or sharing their LinkedIn posts and offering your help in return.
Don't forget to connect with Teach Queensland on social media and follow the Queensland Department of Education on LinkedIn. We’d love to join your professional network too.