Most professionals understand the value of networking for career advancement. However, there’s an even more effective approach to achieving long-term success: building alliances. In this article, we’ll explore what it means to go beyond networking and how to create meaningful, mutually beneficial relationships that propel your career forward.
Going beyond networking and building alliances is an effective way to propel your career.
The Meaning of Going Beyond Networking
Networking shouldn’t feel like an event or a chore, such as collecting business cards at conferences or sending out LinkedIn invitations when you’re job hunting. True networking is seamlessly integrated into your daily life—it’s about forging genuine connections over time, not quick wins.
When I talk about going beyond networking, I mean:
Turning networking into a lifestyle.
Focusing on building alliances instead of shallow connections.
Networking for Shy Professionals
If you find networking uncomfortable, shifting your focus to building alliances may feel more natural. Unlike traditional networking, alliances are rooted in trust, collaboration, and long-term commitment. It’s not about “working the room”—it’s about cultivating deep, meaningful relationships over time.
What is an Ally?
An ally is someone who actively supports your career growth and shares your goals, interests, or values. They are people who have your back, help you navigate challenges, and celebrate your successes.
Why Build Alliances?
Alliances are partnerships where both parties benefit from the relationship. This approach is at the core of the Red Shoe Movement’s Mutual Mentoring methodology, which encourages professionals to support one another’s growth.
Building mutually beneficial alliances fosters a win-win dynamic, where:
Both parties thrive professionally.
Collaboration becomes contagious, attracting more allies and reinforcing your leadership brand.
Learning how to build alliances can bring you joy and help your career flourish
Who Could Be Potential Allies?
Potential allies exist in all corners of your ecosystem. Here’s a list to get you started:
Colleagues on your team
Supervisors and mentors
Administrative and support staff
Business Resource Group members
Senior leadership
Friends and family
Vendors and clients
Members of professional or trade associations
Your goal is to go beyond simply knowing someone’s name. Instead, invest time to genuinely understand their strengths, goals, and challenges.
How to Build Alliances
Be Relentlessly Generous
The foundation of any strong alliance is generosity. Look for ways to help your potential allies, whether it’s offering time, resources, information, or introductions. Genuine generosity builds trust and demonstrates your commitment to the relationship.
Include Allies in Key Decisions
Involve your allies in important projects or decisions to foster collaboration. Consulting them not only strengthens the bond but also ensures they feel valued and respected. Avoid blindsiding them with sudden asks; instead, share your plans in advance.
Offer Public Recognition
One of the simplest yet most powerful ways to nurture your alliances is to acknowledge your allies publicly. Whether it’s praising a colleague during a meeting or sharing your gratitude on social media, recognition reinforces the relationship and shows you don’t take their support for granted.
Respect Their Time and Boundaries
Don’t overburden your allies by asking for help too often or with tasks you could handle yourself. Be strategic and considerate in your requests, ensuring your asks align with their strengths and interests.
Building alliances beyond networking is key for career growth
Building Alliances: A Long-Term Commitment
Developing alliances requires patience and a long-term mindset. Approach each potential ally as someone who could be in your life for years, not just for the duration of a single project. By investing time and effort in understanding their goals and challenges, you’ll build a network of allies who will stand by you through your career journey.
A thriving, satisfying career isn’t built on fleeting connections but on meaningful, lasting relationships. By going beyond networking and building alliances, you’re investing in a community that will propel your career to incredible heights.
Looking to sharpen your skills in building alliances and other career strategies? Join the Red Shoe Movement community to connect with like-minded professionals and grow together!
