The power of networks

The Power of Networks: Insights from Dr Hanneke Takkenberg 

One of the standout workshops of the RightBrains Digital Talent Programme is "The Power of Networks," taught by Dr Hanneke Takkenberg. Dr Takkenberg is a Professor of Management Education with a focus on Women in Business at Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM), and the Executive Director of the Erasmus Centre for Women and Organisations (ECWO). Her workshop shed light on the importance of networking, understanding different networking styles, and identifying key players in professional networks. We are excited to share some of these valuable insights with our RightBrains community. 

Why do you network in a professional setting? 

An important question to consider is: why do you network in a professional setting? Your purpose for networking can guide how you approach and build your network. Here are three primary reasons people network: 

1. To discuss important work matters (Personal): Engaging with colleagues to share insights and solve work-related issues. 

2. To get the work done (Operational): Building connections to facilitate day-to-day operations and ensure tasks are completed efficiently. 

3. To advance in your career (Strategic): Creating relationships that can help you move forward in your professional journey. 

Understanding your primary reason for networking can help you focus your efforts and achieve your goals more effectively. 

What kind of networker are you? 

Once you understand why you network, the next step is to identify what kind of networker you are. Hanneke highlighted three types of networkers: 

1. Hubs: 

• Highly and directly connected with many people. 

• Communicate and disseminate knowledge throughout the organisation. 

• Know everyone well and understand how things get done. 

2. Gatekeepers: 

• Link people and customers, acting as information gateways. 

• Broker knowledge between critical parts of the organisation. 

• Have fewer one-on-one relationships but with critical players. 

3. Pulsetakers: 

• Exert maximum influence with a minimum number of direct contacts. 

• Work through indirect means and are connected to the greatest number of people indirectly. 

Knowing your role in networking 

Identifying your networking style is essential, but it's also important to know which role to play in different networking scenarios based on your purpose. Networking is a dynamic process where roles can shift depending on the context and objectives. 

Networking: A strategic approach 

Hanneke emphasised that networking is a give-and-take process and that relationships are earned, not just built. She recommended taking a strategic approach to networking, acknowledging that while it can be awkward at times, it is crucial for career growth. 

The importance of networking from our mentor

We would like to share what our mentor in this year's Digital Talent Programme has told us about the importance of networking—let's hear her thoughts on it!

Daniela Mazzoni Meeuwis: 

Before starting my career, I wish I had known the important of networking and building relationships. In the first part of my career I focused a lot on developing skills. Coming from a country where we study a lot of theory but don’t do internships or more practical work, I was focusing on building expertise as I thought it was the key to success. Only later on, I realised that connecting more with colleagues, even beyond the more direct ones, with cross-company connections and having the possibility to have a mentor was actually very important. In fact, I have learned that these were the right contacts to open doors, to enrich my career opportunities, and to help me in my personal growth. I have to admit initially, I was very shy to attend events and having to spend time to network, but I have also learned that it was the perfect way to get compliments too and to expand horizons, receive feedback and often also some great suggestions on what to look out or how to deal with particular situations. All in all, I had learned that it was only positive. It really could not harm to take part to these events.

Today, I prioritise building and maintaining strong professional networks as a great source of richness. I always dedicate time in my agenda to expanding my network, to re onnect with existing networks, and to give back to the network or community.

Key takeaways 

• Understand Your Purpose: Know why you are networking—whether for personal, operational, or strategic reasons. 

• Identify Your Style: Determine if you are a Hub, Gatekeeper, or Pulsetaker, or a bit of all, and leverage your strengths. 

• Be Strategic: Approach networking with a clear strategy, aiming to build meaningful and mutually beneficial relationships. 

Final thoughts 

So, RightBrainer, take Dr Takkenberg's wise lessons to heart and seize the next opportunity to attend a networking event. Talk to someone you don't know—serendipity is key to successful networking. Remember, effective networking is not just about building a wide network but creating a network that works for you. The further you go in your career, the more you will have to network.  

This is just a glimpse of the many insights that Hanneke unpacked during the workshop. If you are interested in our Digital Talent Programme, please feel free to reach out to us. If you have any personal networking insights or experiences, we’d love to hear from you. Join the conversation in our RightBrains community Forum and share your stories!