“THE BEST NETWORKS ARE MADE BEFORE THEY ARE NEEDED.”
I recently saw this statement posted by a connection of mine on LinkedIn and felt compelled to share it.
For me, it encapsulates to a TEE why I work hard to build my network.
As they say – you reap what you sow.
The effort you put into in building your professional network now will come back to you two-fold when it comes time to needing –
-
- Career advice;
- Industry knowledge;
- Access to off-market job opportunities;
- A foot in the door with a business or an introduction to someone.
With all of the technology we have access to today, and the many methods of communication it brings to our fingertips – there’s also never been an easier time to build our professional relationships.
For me, however, face-to-face interactions with people will always trump ones that happen behind a screen.
Which is why a lot of my relationship building efforts are still focused on attending industry events.
(Also, how could I turn down a work activity that involves wine?)
So, it’s fortunate that the construction landscape provides many opportunities to do that.
With events frequently run by associations, directly linked to or closely related to construction, that allow you to build your reach and knowledge of the industry.
Generally in a pretty light-hearted, social way.
So with that being said, I wanted to share some of my favourite professional associations with you.
Each of the associations mentioned below run events in Brisbane and Sydney.
Many also have a national presence.
If you’re needing a push to get out there and meet more people in the industry, these are some great avenues to explore.
Australian Institute of Building
https://aib.org.au/products-services/
Goal: to support members and advance the building and construction industry.
Events: conferences, key speaker events, breakfast series, industry awards
The Australian Shop and Office Fitting Industry Association (ASOFIA)
Goal: to bring like-minded clients and contractors together.
Events: trade nights, golf days, key speaker events, awards.
National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)
Goal: to advocate positive change for women in the construction industry.
Events: trade breakfasts, site tours, educational events, social events, mentoring programs.
Property Council of Australia
https://www.propertycouncil.com.au/
Goal: to champion a strong property industry.
Events: Golf days, awards nights, keynote speaker events, seminars.
Property Industry Foundation (PIF)
https://www.pif.com.au/about-us/
Goal: to make a tangible difference to youth homelessness in Australia -this charity was formed by leaders in the property & construction industry.
Events: networking & fundraising events including sailing, cycling, gala dinners, CEO sleepouts, workabees, wrap nights.
Women in Design and Construction (WIDAC)
Goal: to create a community of women within the design & construction industry who share ideas, network and provide support to each other in a social setting.
Events: workshops, educational events, social events.
It’s always helpful to know a friendly face when networking. So if you’re thinking about getting along to any construction events in Brisbane – drop me a line! There’s a good chance I’ll be there and I’d love to say hello.
cass@constructionpeople.com.au
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