By Shahin Akther
A few years ago, I found myself in a packed elevator at a corporate event. Right beside me stood a senior executive I had admired for years—an opportunity I had only dreamed of. My mind raced:
“Should I introduce myself? What if she ignores me? What if I sound unprepared?”
Before I could muster the courage, the elevator dinged. The doors slid open, and just as I hesitated, another woman confidently stepped forward, greeting the executive, and exchanging contact details with ease.
That moment hit me hard. It wasn’t just about talent or hard work with sweat; connections mattered. Women who support and uplift each other don’t just grow; they soar.
I walked out of that elevator with one lesson etched in my mind: opportunities aren’t just given; they are created. And the best way to create them? By building a strong network of women who empower, inspire, and uplift each other.
But let’s be real. While networking is a widely acknowledged success factor, many women face unique barriers when it comes to cultivating professional relationships.
Despite being more educated and ambitious than ever before, women often find themselves on the outskirts of influential professional circles. Here’s why:
The Comfort Zone Trap
Many women tend to stick with familiar faces, whether it’s colleagues they’ve known for years or friends they’ve made in the industry. While comfort zones feel safe, they limit exposure to new opportunities, ideas, and collaborations.
Imposter Syndrome
That inner critic—the one whispering, “You’re not good enough”—can be the biggest roadblock to reaching out. Women are more likely than men to underestimate their skills and hesitate to seek mentorship or connections with influential people.
Lack of Reciprocity
Ever feel like you’re always offering help but rarely receiving support in return? Many women struggle with networking because they feel they are constantly giving but not benefiting equally from professional relationships.
Limited Access to Decision-Makers
Many high-level networking spaces remain male-dominated. Women often find themselves excluded from informal gatherings where important decisions and connections are made—like golf outings, exclusive dinners, or private boardroom discussions.
But here’s the truth: We don’t have to wait for a seat at someone else’s table. We can build our own.
So, how do we break through these barriers and create networks that actually work for us? Here are some practical steps:
Be Intentional
Stop ‘collecting’ contacts like business cards at a conference. Instead, focus on building genuine relationships. Seek out women in your industry who inspire you. Engage with them meaningfully, comment on their work, share their achievements, and offer support.
Give Before You Take
The strongest networks are built on generosity. Instead of immediately asking for favors, offer value first. Share useful resources, introduce connections, or simply cheer for other women’s successes. When women support women, everyone wins.
Join Women-Centric Groups
Surround yourself with like-minded professionals. Organizations like Lean In Circles, Women in Leadership forums, and LinkedIn groups are excellent platforms for exchanging ideas, finding mentors, and accessing exclusive opportunities.
Speak Up & Show Up
Networking isn’t just about who you know—it’s also about who knows you. Whether it’s at industry events, panel discussions, or informal coffee chats, be present and vocal. If you never raise your hand, no one will know what you bring to the table.
Mentor & Be Mentored
One of the most powerful ways to strengthen your network is to both seek guidance and offer it. Find mentors who can share their experiences, and in turn, be a mentor to women who are navigating the path behind you. Remember: lifting others up doesn’t dim your light it makes the whole room shine brighter.
Leverage Digital Networking
In today’s world, networking isn’t confined to in-person events. Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and industry-specific forums can be goldmines for connecting with professionals globally. Follow influential women, engage with their content, and don’t be afraid to slide into their DMs with a thoughtful message.
Dear women, your network isn’t just a list of names; it’s a powerful force that can propel you forward.
The most successful women don’t compete; they collaborate, empower, and uplift. They don’t wait for permission; they create opportunities. And they don’t hesitate to extend a hand, share a contact, or open a door for another woman.
So, the next time you step into an elevator of opportunity, don’t hesitate. Speak up, introduce yourself, and make the connection. Because in the world of success, your girls’ network is your net worth.
And remember! Empowered women empower women. Let’s build a future where we all rise together.
Leave a Reply