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6 Things, 1 Hour: Must Do's for Every Executive to Maximize your Network

Monica York


Hey there, powerhouse!


If you’re anything like me, your schedule is already overflowing with meetings, deadlines, and a thousand other responsibilities. But let’s be real—building and nurturing your network is non-negotiable if you want to keep climbing the ladder (or making your own). The good news? It doesn’t have to take over your life.


Here’s how to supercharge your network in just one hour per week. These six quick and easy steps will keep you connected, visible, and ready for your next big opportunity—all while sipping your morning coffee or while waiting somewhere for something that's taking too long!


1. Reconnect with an Old Contact (10 Minutes)

We all have that friend or former colleague we’ve been “meaning to catch up with.” Now’s the time. A quick “Hey, I was thinking about you! How’s life?” message can spark a conversation and remind them you’re still around.


How to Do It Fast:

  • Open LinkedIn or your email.

  • Scroll through your past messages or connections list.

  • Pick one person and send a short, thoughtful message like:

  • “Hi [Name], it’s been a while! I saw [something relevant about them] and it made me think of you. Would love to hear how you’re doing!”


Tech Tip: Use LinkedIn’s “People You May Know” or search by company or role to jog your memory.


2. Share Something Valuable with Your Network (10 Minutes)

Your network isn’t just there for you to tap into—it’s also a chance to give back. Share a quick tip, a helpful article, or even a success story. This keeps you on their radar in a positive way.


How to Do It Fast:

  • Find an interesting article, podcast, or insight relevant to your field.

  • Post it on LinkedIn with a quick comment like: I found this really insightful on [topic]. Curious—what do you all think?

  • Then check back for replies and engage!


Tech Tip: Set up Google Alerts or follow industry hashtags on LinkedIn so great content comes to you.


3. Make a New Connection (5 Minutes)

Networking isn’t just about the people you already know—it’s about the ones you want to know. Each week, take a minute to add one new person to your circle.


How to Do It Fast:

  • Search for someone in your industry or a field you’re curious about, connect with someone you work with but don't really know, or find 2nd degree connections that seem interesting.

  • Send a connection request with a short note like: Hi [Name], I'm growing my network and think our mutual interests and contacts would make for a great connection. I hope you'll connect and look forward to sharing!

  • Remember: Don't be discouraged if they pass. It's not a proposal!


Tech Tip: Use LinkedIn’s “People You May Know” or advanced search to find connections by industry, role, or company.


4. Check In with Your Inner Circle (10 Minutes)

Your inner circle—mentors, close colleagues, and trusted advisors—needs love too. A quick check-in strengthens these important relationships.


How to Do It Fast:

  • Choose one or two people each week.

  • Send a quick text, DM, or email with a personal touch like:

  • “Hi [Name], just wanted to say thanks again for [specific advice/support]. Hope all is great with you!”


Tech Tip: Use tools like Notion, Evernote, or even your phone’s Notes app to keep a running list of your inner circle and when you last checked in.


5. Attend a Quick Event or Webinar (20 Minutes)

Professional events don’t have to eat up your day. Find short, targeted events where you can learn, connect, and grow. Bonus points if you can do it from your couch with coffee in hand.


How to Do It Fast:

  • Pick one free, 20–30 minute webinar or event that aligns with your goals.

  • Use the chat or Q&A feature to interact and make yourself visible.

  • Follow up with one interesting attendee or speaker afterward.


Tech Tip: Check platforms like Eventbrite, LinkedIn Events, or Meetup for options.


6. Reflect and Plan Your Networking Goals (5 Minutes)

Spend a few minutes each week thinking about your big-picture goals. Who do you want to connect with? What do you want to learn? This keeps your efforts focused.


How to Do It Fast:

  • Ask yourself three questions:

    • Who do I need to reconnect with?

    • What do I want to learn this week?

    • Is there someone new I should reach out to?

  • Write your answers down in a simple notebook, app, or Google Doc.


Tech Tip: Use tools like Trello or Airtable to create a simple, trackable plan.


How to Make This a Breeze Every Week

Let’s talk systems, sis! Streamlining your networking activities makes this whole process feel effortless. Here’s how to keep it simple:

  1. Set a Weekly Reminder: Schedule your “networking hour” like any other meeting. You can even break it into smaller chunks (e.g., 10 minutes a day).

    1. Check out this Custom GPT to make getting the appointment even faster! Calendar Link Generator

    2. Use LinkedIn as Your Hub: Save articles to share later.

    3. Use the “My Network” tab to find people you’ve lost touch with.

    4. Follow companies or hashtags to stay updated on your industry.


  2. Automate Where You Can: Tools like Calendly make scheduling quick chats seamless. Google Alerts can feed you content to share. CRM tools like HubSpot help track your connections.


Your Network Is Your Superpower

In just one hour a week, you can build a network that supports your career goals, celebrates your wins, and inspires your next steps. Remember: networking doesn’t have to be a big, overwhelming task. With the right system and mindset, it’s just another way to show up for yourself and your career.


So, grab your coffee, set that timer, and start making moves! You’ve got this!

Ladies, want more tips tailored to powerhouse women like you? Check out our Career AdvanceHer coaching program—it’s like having your own personal hype squad and strategy team all in one. Let’s slay those career goals, together!


Ready to level up? Reach out today.

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