Leadership Lab: A Conversation on the Power of Network

In the May episode of the Leadership Lab podcast, we sat down with executive coach to the legal profession, Kerry Jones, to explore why building and maintaining a strong professional network has never been more essential. We unpack what networking looks like in today’s business world, why it matters and how to make it work for you!

Why should you power up your network

Sandra McKinnon: Why is networking such a vital skill in today’s professional world?

Kerry Jones: Networking isn’t just about business development or asking for favours – it’s about building a web of relationships that support you throughout your career. With many people now working remotely or in hybrid roles, that casual office visibility is gone, and we have to be more intentional about how we connect internally and externally.

Build rapport through curiosity

Sandra McKinnon: What does “authentic” networking look like to you?

Kerry Jones: It’s about quality, not quantity. Reaching out to someone with genuine curiosity or sharing something useful creates trust and rapport. People remember how you made them feel, not how many times you popped up in their inbox.

Dispelling myths about ‘going networking’

Sandra McKinnon: What are some common barriers people face with networking?

Kerry Jones: One big one is the misconception that networking is self-serving. But when you approach it as mutual growth – helping others while learning from them – that discomfort usually fades. Confidence and time are also big hurdles, especially if you’re introverted or feel like you don’t have much to offer.

How has hybrid working changed things?

Sandra McKinnon: Has hybrid work made networking harder?

Kerry Jones: It’s different. You lose those organic moments when meeting someone face to face. But the digital world offers reach. You can connect globally with people you may never have met otherwise. You just need to be a bit more strategic and proactive.

How to get started?

Sandra McKinnon: What’s one small step people can take to improve their networking habits?

Kerry Jones: Start with maintaining your existing network. Drop a line to someone you’ve connected with recently – thank them, share an article, ask how they are. Use LinkedIn to connect with your internal network and start to share some insights that way. That alone starts to build your networking muscle.

Key Takeaways

• Networking = Relationship Building: It’s about mutual benefit, not just asking for help.
• Be Authentic: Focus on creating value and genuine interactions, and have fun!
• Make Time: Schedule regular moments to connect or follow up with contacts. Have a plan.
• Try some tried-and-tested techniques: Find out about Kerry’s ‘Power of Three’ – simple steps to get the most out of face-to-face networking events.

Want to Hear More?

This Leadership Lab was packed with insights on how to fully realise the ‘Power of Network’. To hear the full conversation, 🎧 listen to this episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

At Harvey John, we’re committed to helping professionals navigate their careers with clarity and confidence. Stay tuned for our next Leadership Lab session, and in the meantime, connect with us on LinkedIn for more career insights!