Once again, we are honored to publish another great article written by Josh Moore of Diaper Dads. We love his perspective and writing style. Please check out his latest article and leave a comment if you can relate to it or have any Networking tips for the Professional New Moms in our community!
Baby Steps to Big Leagues: Networking Tips for the Professional New Mom
by Josh Moore of Diaper Dads
Navigating the intersection of fresh motherhood and professional networking presents a unique challenge for many new moms. As they find themselves caught in a whirlwind of nurturing a newborn and maintaining a career, the importance of efficient networking becomes magnified. This article from 50 is the New Mommy delves into innovative networking strategies designed specifically to fit a new mom’s schedule and lifestyle. These strategies not only help maintain but also grow the professional relationships that underpin career advancement and personal development.
Connect with Parent Colleagues at Your Workplace
New moms are encouraged to establish connections with coworkers who are also parents. This mutual understanding of the struggle to maintain a work-life balance fosters a bond that can become the bedrock of your professional network. Arranging casual coffee chats or participating in lunch discussions can act as catalysts for such relationships.
Voice Your Professional Aspirations to Your Network
It is essential for new moms to articulate their career objectives to their close-knit network of friends, family, and colleagues. Open conversations about professional goals can lead to valuable advice, mentorship, and at times, unforeseen opportunities.
Networking According to Your Baby’s Schedule
New mothers can smartly use periods when their baby is calm or napping to conduct networking activities. Maternity leave could be a great opportunity to engage in virtual networking or participate in online workshops. The key here lies in being adaptable and flexible, tailoring your networking plans around your newborn’s routine.
Participate in Family-Friendly Networking Events
Networking events that are designed for working parents or those that permit attendees to bring their children are invaluable for new moms. These events are ideal for meeting professionals in similar situations and expanding your professional connections. Examples include business conferences offering childcare amenities or networking picnics organized for parents and their children.
Engage in Working Moms’ Communities
New mothers are urged to join local or online groups specifically created for working moms. Exchanging stories, advice, and resources with other mothers grappling with similar challenges can provide a sense of camaraderie and support. Various platforms such as online forums, social media communities, and professional associations can guide in finding these relevant groups.
Leverage Virtual Networking Platforms
Virtual networking platforms offer convenience and accessibility, making them ideal for new moms. These platforms facilitate the continuation of networking activities from the comfort of home, thereby providing flexibility without compromising professional connections. In addition, these virtual platforms create an all-inclusive professional space, enabling new moms to widen their reach and connect with a diverse array of professionals, thus expanding their horizon of opportunities while juggling the demanding schedule of motherhood.
Initiate Your Own Networking Group
If you’re a proactive new mom, give this a try: consider taking the initiative to establish your own networking group specifically for new mothers within your community. Leveraging free online tools, you can effortlessly create personalized invites to draw more mothers to your cause. This networking group is a treasure trove of possibilities, extending support and guidance while simultaneously opening avenues for job referrals and career opportunities. Not only does it offer a platform for connection, but it also provides an empowering environment for professional advancement.
In essence, being a new mom need not mean the sidelining of your professional growth. By adopting these strategic networking tips, such as creating your own networking event with digital invitations, new mothers can sustain their professional networks even while tackling the challenges of motherhood. A balanced approach to networking and parenting can lead to not only personal and career advancement, but also a richer, more fulfilling journey of motherhood. Networking, in this context, becomes a powerful tool that ensures the seamless integration of the roles of a professional and a mother.
If you or someone you know is thinking of becoming a mom at an older age, please connect with us on Facebook or Instagram. We love to welcome newbies to our community!