Your Network Called and it Wants a Makeover

Your Network Called and it Wants a Makeover: How Women in Business Can Avoid Getting Stuck

A strong network is a critical tool for career advancement and maintaining one requires regular evaluation.  But for many women, evaluating their network can feel like an unnecessary task, especially if they already feel comfortable with their current connections or place in their career. However, having a “good enough” network may limit long-term success, especially in industries where women already face unique challenges. Evaluating your network on a regular basis is critical to maintaining its health and ensuring it’s strong and present when you need to lean on it the most.

Why Evaluating Your Network Matters (Even if You Think It’s Good Enough)

In many industries, women often find themselves underrepresented in leadership roles, and one reason is limited access to influential networks. Evaluating and growing your network allows you to create connections with mentors, peers, and sponsors who can provide the guidance and opportunities necessary for advancement. When women intentionally build their networks, they expand their visibility and tap into powerful resources that can accelerate their future goals.

Professional stagnation is a “thing”.  Even if your current network has helped you succeed up to this point, it’s essential to evaluate whether it can continue to propel you forward. A stagnant network is one that’s too focused on familiar people and industries, and can limit your exposure to new ideas, innovations, and potential collaborators. Diversity in your network helps you think more creatively and provides access to emerging trends across different fields. Regular evaluation ensures that you’re continually growing and expanding your connections, not just staying comfortable in your current circle.

OK – “I’m In!  Now What?”

Step 1: Map Out Your Existing Network

• Start by identifying your key connections. List the first 15 people that come to mind from your network. Capture their roles and identify if they are: mentors, sponsors, peers, or colleagues.
• Are these connections diverse in terms of industry, experience, and perspective and background?
• Do you have a balance of male and female mentors or allies who can offer different types of support?
• Are there gaps where you lack relationships with people in senior leadership positions or new industries you want to explore?

Step 2: Identify Gaps and Areas for Growth

Once you have a clear picture of your current network, look for gaps. Do you primarily connect with people in your own field, but not in other industries? Are your mentors from similar backgrounds, limiting the diversity of advice and perspectives you receive?

• Gender Representation: Do you have access to successful men and women who can offer mentorship or sponsorship?
• Professional Hierarchy: Are you connected to senior leaders or sponsors who can provide career-boosting opportunities?
• Diverse Perspectives: Do you have relationships that expose you to new industries or markets?

Step 3: Assess the Strength of Your Relationships

It’s not just about the number of people you know—it’s about the depth and authenticity of those connections. Ask yourself:

• How often do I engage with my key connections?
• Do I have meaningful relationships with mentors and sponsors who actively support me?
• Am I contributing value to my network by offering support, insights, or connections, or are my interactions primarily transactional?

Assessing the quality of your relationships ensures that you’re not just maintaining surface-level connections but building a supportive and valuable network as well.

propel your career farther than you ever imagined. Your future self will thank you for it.

Dang! “I Have Gaps but No Idea of What to Do”

This is where women often take a pause.  Networking can be challenging for even the most social people and it’s easier to just move onto another task that’s less daunting than committing to growing your network.  Why is this so difficult for women?

• Fear of Self-Promotion

Many women hesitate to network actively because they feel uncomfortable with self-promotion. However, networking doesn’t have to be about "selling" yourself—it’s about building meaningful relationships. Reframe your networking efforts as an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and share value, rather than as an uncomfortable obligation.

• The "Good Enough" Mindset

Some women believe that once they’ve reached a certain level of success, their network is "good enough." However, industries evolve, and staying connected to emerging leaders, trends, and opportunities is crucial for staying relevant and advancing your career. A dynamic, ever-growing network keeps you adaptable and open to new opportunities.

• Limited Access to Male-Dominated Networks

In male-dominated industries, it can be challenging for women to access influential networks. However, it’s essential to seek out both male allies and female mentors to broaden your network. Building strong relationships with men in leadership positions can provide access to opportunities and insights, while connections with successful women offer shared experiences and support.