What is Networking in Hospitality?
In the competitive world of hospitality, networking isn’t just a bonus—it’s essential. At We Are Key, we’ve witnessed first-hand how important building relationships is to career success. While having industry knowledge and skills is important, how you communicate with professionals alike is just as important.
In fact, LinkedIn data shows that referrals are the number one way people find new jobs, and that’s especially true in hospitality. Our industry thrives on personal connections, as many of the skills required—like empathy and problem-solving—are hard to quantify on a CV. That’s why networking plays such a vital role in fostering relationships that can lead to career growth.
But networking isn’t just about attending industry events. It’s about creating long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationships. While it’s not always easy putting yourself out there, the rewards are always worth it.
Here are 5 actionable tips to help you maximize the opportunities of networking in the hospitality industry:
1. Set Clear Networking Goals
Attending events is a fantastic way to expand your professional network, but doing so without a strategy is like visiting a city without a guide—you’re there, but you won’t get the most out of it. Before attending an event, take time to identify who you’d like to meet. Whether it’s potential partners or industry leaders, make a list of individuals you want to connect with.
Once you’ve identified them, craft a memorable introduction, almost like an elevator pitch. Keep it brief but impactful. If you want to make an even stronger impression, do some research on their latest projects or published articles, and use that as a conversation started!
2. Show Authenticity
It’s tempting to be overly formal in networking situations, but don’t forget to show your personal side. People tend to build relationships with individuals they can relate to, not just professionals with an impressive CV. Sharing a personal story or why you’re passionate about hospitality can make you more memorable.
Authenticity helps set you apart from others, and in an industry centered around people, staying true to yourself goes a long way. That said, balance is key—make sure you’re professional, but don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through.
3. Stay Connected After the Event
The first step to successful networking is making a great first impression, but the real value lies in the follow-up. After meeting someone at a conference or event, don’t let the relationship fade. Whether it’s through an email or LinkedIn message, taking the time to reconnect can solidify the relationship.
A simple line like “It was great meeting you [event]! I found your insights on [topic] really valuable,” can keep the conversation going.
4. Leverage Social Media
Today, a strong online presence is crucial for networking, and LinkedIn is the perfect platform for hospitality professionals. It’s not just about creating a profile—it’s about creating a personal brand. Engage with posts, participate in industry discussions, and showcase your expertise through articles.
Join LinkedIn groups relevant to hospitality, where professionals share industry insights, tips, and advice. It’s an easy way to find common ground with other professionals and initiate conversations that can lead to new opportunities. By creating a personal brand on social media, you’re positioning yourself as a thought leader in the hospitality space.
5. Reach Out to Industry Leaders
Never hesitate to seek guidance from leaders in your field. Reaching out for advice is less intimidating than asking for a job and often yields better results in terms of building relationships. Most professionals are more than willing to offer insights, especially to someone who is genuinely interested in learning.
This approach allows you to learn directly from those who have navigated similar career paths. Mentorship can be incredibly valuable, offering you the chance to hear practical tips and strategies that you might not find elsewhere.
We Are Key
Networking is not just a tool for job searching—it’s an ongoing process of building relationships that can lead to mentorship, industry insights, and career advancement. In hospitality, where so much of our success depends on personal connections, networking allows us to continually grow, both personally and professionally.
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