How can your hobbies help you build a professional network?

My hobby of improvisation relates to my connection to other people and building together. As a Mexican woman of color, I increase the representation of minority groups in my community and make visible groups that are not usually participants. I believe my active participation will inspire others from similar ethnic backgrounds interested in trying improv and other forms of expression to join and adapt these mediums to represent a more diverse conversation. Ultimately, my network is enriched by the possibilities I am opening from a position of curiosity, empathy, and playfulness. It is even more potent because the pressures of a paycheck do not limit my project. Instead, my project is fueled by a growth mindset.

Passion is a sure fire way to ignite personal and professional goals. During COVID there were definitely lots of times for making, growing, sharing things with neighbors, family, friends. I started making an abundance of cat toys, stuffed with the catnip that I had growing in the garden. I used scraps of fabric and leftover ribbon to make “ mice “ and “jellyfish”. The toys were such a hit that my sister and I started sewing dozens and dozens of them. I dropped them off to a little pet store to be sold for charity. Proceeds to the Nantucket Island Safe Harbor for Animals (@NISHA). We keep making the toys-thrilled when customers’ cats love them. #giveback #smallbusiness #fun #saveanimals Who knows-maybe a new business one day for me?

Turning your passion into a network-building powerhouse might seem unexpected, but there's magic in the unexpected. Think about it: your hobbies are the activities that light you up, that get you out of bed with a spring in your step (or onto your yoga mat with a focused zen). They're the spaces where you're naturally engaged, curious, and open to connecting with others who share your interests. And that's the gold mine, right there. When you're surrounded by people who get your fire, conversations flow effortlessly, and collaborations spark like fireworks. You're not just exchanging business cards; you're building genuine connections with people who understand your language, your drive, and your unique perspective.

My hobby is fly fishing. Love to be in pursuit of trout, looking for water changes, currents, finding the right fly pattern, being in nature and the prize is getting them safely in the net only to let them live free. It has taken many years, research, catching trees and bushes, catching myself and endless days of casting with not a nibble. It is the perseverance and will to succeed at doing something so difficult that reminds me of my work life and role such as casting for the perfect client. Researching to see what lure solution they will bite on and then comfortably netting them to free them to be on their way to growth. Thanks Lou.

Your hobbies and pastimes can provide an opportunity to enhance your connections to others based on mutual interests. They can help bridge connections with individuals within your market sector and expand to other groups with the common connect. An example for me has been the sport of sailing and sailboat racing which has created a connection to a global network in the business community. This same approach can be applied to other interests.

Es ideal que los pasatiempos te traigan 1. Momentos de relax 2. Momentos de reflexión 3. Momentos de aprendizaje. Encuentra grupos y espacios donde puedas encontrar estas 3 cosas, en el menor tiempo posible

As a director, I've embraced the proactive approach of connecting with groups and communities that resonate with my hobbies. Leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and Meetup, I've not only expanded my professional network but also gained fresh perspectives from engaging with fellow enthusiasts in my hobbies. These connections extend beyond casual interests, presenting opportunities for collaboration and industry insights. Thrilled to be part of vibrant communities that contribute to both personal and professional growth.

I think you always have to be proactive, I am a part of my gym's facebook group and follow them on instagram, sense of belonging is an important and powerful tool.

It is always beneficial to join like-minded groups that have common interests. I suggest creating these groups in the workplace to enhance connections with other departments. Getting to know people on a personal level will support cooperation across the organization and allow better work flow

A great way to be active and engaged in your new hobby is the volunteer to help with something, ANYTHING! At the very least you will get to know a few people that are leading the group right away.

As a director, I've seamlessly integrated my proactive approach into hobby-related groups. Actively participating in discussions, sharing insights, and offering valuable feedback, I aim to contribute not only my enthusiasm but also the expertise gained through leadership roles. This engagement is more than just networking; it's about building trust and credibility within these communities. Eager to foster meaningful connections and contribute to the collective growth of both personal and professional

I enjoy my career and have viewed aspects of it as a hobby; for example reading and writing articles on food safety, hosting events and building a network of like minded professionals.

Es difícil mostrar entusiasmo por participar en grupos y comunidades si no es genuino. Dedica tiempo a elegir y auditar tus círculos y redes profesionales y de aprendizaje. Si crees que has elegido mal o no eres la persona ideal para ese grupo de trabajo, es mejor soltar y ser sincero, para no contaminar el flujo natural de la dinámica del equipo, y no retrasar tu crecimiento.

Staying active and engaged in groups related to your hobbies can be a game-changer for networking. It allows you to connect with like-minded professionals and often leads to meaningful collaborations. Plus, it’s a fun way to blend personal interests with professional growth! #Networking #TeamBuilding #ProfessionalDevelopment

The fourth step resonates with me as it emphasizes the power of proactive networking. Personally, I find that exchanging ideas within hobby-related groups not only enriches my interests but also creates a platform for mutual growth. Connecting on social media has been instrumental in broadening my network, and follow-up conversations have led to insightful collaborations. Excited to hear others' experiences in building connections!

As a director in the dynamic FinTech sector, I understand the importance of forging meaningful connections. Beyond active participation in hobby-related groups, I make it a priority to connect and follow up with professionals who share common interests. Whether through exchanging contact information, connecting on social media, or extending invitations to industry events, I aim to create a network that extends beyond casual interactions. This not only strengthens relationships but opens avenues for collaboration, mentorship, and valuable insights. Excited about the potential for mutual growth within these

To best connect and follow up I find the following helpful: 1. Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular check-ins, whether they are one-on-one meetings or team updates, to stay informed about progress and address any concerns. 2. Active Listening: During interactions, practice active listening to understand team members' perspectives, challenges, and ideas. 3. Clear Communication: Ensure that communication is clear, transparent, and aligned with organizational goals, fostering a shared understanding. 4. Provide Feedback: Offer constructive feedback. By incorporating these strategies, you can establish strong connections with your team and maintain effective follow-up practices, contributing to a collaborative and motivated culture.

As much as I don't enjoy networking much, there is a whole lot of truth here. The only way people will know what you do is by being involved in the community. This is where the power of opportunity lies.

As a director in the forefront of the FinTech landscape, I've extended my passion for adoption of new things, to a professional showcase. Through curated content on platforms like LinkedIn and a dedicated section on exp. Detail, I spotlight achievements that not only reflect my creativity but also demonstrate problem-solving skills crucial in the dynamic FinTech space. This not only serves as a testament to my value but also positions me as a thought leader in the intersection of learning, as in lifetime student and financial technology. Eager to contribute to both sectors and build a lasting legacy

To me, the key is to be genuine in your interactions, focusing on shared passions while remaining open to the professional possibilities that may arise.

Mostrar nuestros logros en las aficiones es más que compartir éxitos; es un reflejo de nuestro balance emocional. Al crear un portafolio, blog o canal que exhiba estas pasiones, no solo destacamos nuestras habilidades, sino que también demostramos cómo mantener un equilibrio entre el éxito y la adversidad. Compartir estos aspectos en nuestro perfil profesional, como LinkedIn, resalta nuestra humanidad y nuestra capacidad para disfrutar las victorias sin perder la perspectiva en los desafíos. Esto es vital para mostrar una imagen auténtica y completa. Recordemos mantener la madurez emocional para no sentirnos superiores en las victorias ni inferiores en las derrotas, ya que el equilibrio en ambos extremos marca la diferencia.

Cuando tu afición se convierte en el servicio que ofreces, no basta con decir que sabes, lo más importante es demostrar con hechos que realmente sabes lo que dices que haces. "No cuentes. Muestra". Esa es una técnica narrativa que también la puedes aplicar cuando se trata de tus logros. ¿Experimentos propios que han salido bien? Ideal. ¿Proyectos para clientes con muy buenos resultados? Perfecto. ¿No los tienes? Pues, a moverse, a crear y/o buscarlos. Vivimos en una de las mejores épocas para los profesionales, porque todo lo tenemos a un clic de distancia y, la mayoría de las veces, sin tener que pagar nada. Sugerencia: Aprovecha este 2024 para dejar evidencia tangible de lo bueno que eres en tus aficiones.

Yes, that is true. I have a blog, podcast and amazing LinkedIn profile. It highlights my strengths and potential. I have written a lot of hilarious 😂 posts, when I read them I shake my head, I ask myself "did you really write this" people love me for being me!

You never know who you'll meet when you explore your hobbies within your community or by volunteering. Often, hobbies provide you with connections with different professional experiences from yours that can provide unbiased inspiration to your work. This can help you out of a slump, shine light on a new approach, or inspire you to tackle a problem with a more empathetic viewpoint. Because of this - lean in to the things you truly enjoy and have fun doing. Sometimes the more unlike your day job it is, the better for you + surprisingly, your career.

Enfrentar el síndrome de burnout es un desafío en el mundo laboral actual. Como experto en RRHH, reconozco la importancia vital de las aficiones para prevenir este agotamiento. Dedicar tiempo a actividades que nos apasionan y divierten no es solo recreativo, sino también terapéutico. Estos momentos de disfrute y diversión actúan como un antídoto contra el estrés y la fatiga mental, proporcionando un respiro necesario y ayudando a mantener una mente sana y equilibrada. No subestimemos el poder de nuestras pasiones para recargar energías y fortalecer nuestra salud mental

Having Fun is Key! Don't make your hobby a task, it has to be what you love to do. Hobbies allow you to be the multi dimensional person you truly are. We are all unique with multiple talents. Allow your hobby to lead you down paths of roads you never knew existed.

Watching movies... This will be the hobby in 90% of resumes! This was never wrong in the first place, but what have you learnt from it? That'll take you places. If the concept of time being the fourth dimension can be made to understand a highschooler who never understood in class, then that can be exercised as a hobby.

Keep synchronising all your contacts by using the AI technology and outlook sync apps is the best way to maintain networking with clients, sources and suppliers.