The Power of Networking: How I Built a Global Professional Presence

The Power of Networking Unlocked

Networking is not just about exchanging business cards or adding connections on LinkedIn. It is a strategic approach to building relationships, opening doors to new opportunities, and accelerating career growth. My journey from securing a job at Salesforce in the Netherlands to becoming an AI Specialist and growing a global professional presence is a testament to the power of networking.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

In this blog, I will share my personal experiences, best practices, and key learnings on how networking helped me land opportunities, expand my reach, and establish myself as a professional in the Salesforce ecosystem and beyond.

The Beginning of My Networking Journey

Networking did not start as a conscious effort for me. At first, it was simply a way to connect with people around me, especially in professional settings like conferences, meetings, and work events. Over time, I realized that networking was not just about meeting people—it was about building relationships that could create value both for me and the people I connected with.

When I started my career at Salesforce in the Netherlands, I was already aware of the potential that networking could bring. But it wasn’t until I began to actively focus on it that I started seeing the true impact. I worked diligently to create meaningful relationships, not just with my colleagues but with clients, industry experts, and other professionals. This allowed me to learn from others, share my knowledge, and ultimately make an impact on those around me.

Creating a Global Presence: Leveraging LinkedIn

One of the key platforms that helped me build a global professional presence was LinkedIn. As a digital platform, LinkedIn is an incredible tool for connecting with professionals worldwide, sharing expertise, and even collaborating with peers across industries.

From the start, I made sure to have a polished LinkedIn profile that showcased my skills, experiences, and achievements. More importantly, I used the platform to connect with professionals who shared similar interests, career paths, and values. I consistently posted updates about my work at Salesforce, certifications, and relevant industry insights. Through this, I not only expanded my network but also established myself as a thought leader in the Salesforce ecosystem, particularly in areas like AI and Data Cloud.

The key to success on LinkedIn lies in engagement. Rather than passively connecting with people, I actively engaged with others by commenting on their posts, sharing valuable resources, and offering advice. This approach helped me build credibility and trust, leading to stronger relationships.

The Power of Cross-Industry Networking

While it’s essential to network within your industry, I found that connecting with professionals outside of Salesforce and technology opened up new opportunities. Cross-industry networking exposes you to new ideas, perspectives, and innovations that can positively influence your career and personal growth.

For instance, I started connecting with people in fields like marketing, entrepreneurship, and even lifestyle coaching. These diverse connections not only broadened my horizons but also allowed me to understand different approaches to professional challenges. I learned valuable lessons on creativity, problem-solving, and strategic thinking from industries outside of my own. This cross-industry networking played a significant role in shaping my approach to career growth and life coaching, areas I am deeply passionate about.

As I actively engaged in these networks, I built relationships with professionals from all corners of the globe, increasing my international visibility and expanding my career opportunities. I even ventured into affiliate marketing, which is an entirely different field from Salesforce, but my cross-industry network provided the support and knowledge I needed to succeed.

Facebook_Header_Banner-820x312

Networking Beyond LinkedIn: Conferences, Webinars, and Community Engagement

LinkedIn is undoubtedly a powerful tool, but it’s not the only platform to expand your professional presence. Attending industry conferences, webinars, and networking events is a fantastic way to meet people face-to-face (or virtually) and form deeper, more meaningful connections.

I made it a point to attend Salesforce events, such as World Tour, both in person and online. These events are a goldmine for networking, as they attract professionals from across the globe who are passionate about Salesforce, technology, and innovation. I actively participated in discussions, volunteered at booths, and engaged in meaningful conversations with people from different backgrounds and locations.

Moreover, I sought out volunteering opportunities that allowed me to give back to the community. One such opportunity was with Calais Academy in the France, where I helped refugees learn about Salesforce. Through this, I not only made a difference in the lives of newcomers but also connected with professionals passionate about similar causes. Volunteering expanded my network, while also helping me feel like I was contributing to something greater than myself.

Building Personal Branding and Authenticity

When it comes to networking, it’s essential to stay authentic. I knew that I had to build a personal brand that reflected who I truly was, not just the professional side of me. Whether it’s through LinkedIn posts, Instagram stories, or even YouTube videos, I made sure to share my authentic journey with others.

On Instagram, I began sharing glimpses of my personal life—my travel experiences, my passion for dance and music, and my close relationships with family and friends. This helped me build a more relatable presence and connect with people on a human level. It wasn’t just about what I achieved at Salesforce or my professional milestones, but about showcasing my personality and what made me unique.

Additionally, I made sure that my online presence wasn’t just about self-promotion. I actively helped others by sharing knowledge and resources about career growth, technology, and personal development. Through this, I built a community of like-minded individuals who supported each other and learned from one another.

The Importance of Consistency and Patience

Networking is not an overnight process. It requires patience, consistency, and continuous effort. Building a global presence doesn’t happen with just a few well-timed connections. It’s about being consistent, offering value to others, and showing up regularly.

Whether it’s posting on LinkedIn, engaging in conversations at conferences, or simply keeping in touch with your network, consistency is key. Over time, the relationships you build will turn into valuable opportunities, whether it’s a new job offer, a partnership, or simply advice that can guide you in your career.

I’ve also learned that networking isn’t just about getting something in return. It’s about giving. Whether it’s offering a piece of advice, sharing an interesting article, or helping someone solve a problem, being generous with your time and knowledge pays off in the long run.

Scaling Up My Professional Presence: Collaborations and Mentorship

As my network grew, I began collaborating with other professionals on projects that allowed me to expand my skill set and increase my visibility. One of the most significant collaborations was with other Salesforce professionals, where I shared my knowledge of Data Cloud and AI through webinars and workshops. This not only helped me learn new skills but also positioned me as a thought leader in those fields.

Mentorship also played a crucial role in my journey. I sought mentors who could guide me in areas like career growth, technology learning, and personal development. These mentors helped me navigate the challenges I faced and gave me the confidence to pursue new opportunities.

Similarly, I also became a mentor to others, sharing my knowledge and experience with newcomers in the Salesforce ecosystem. By giving back in this way, I expanded my influence and built a reputation as someone who genuinely cared about the success of others.

Here Are Few Things That Worked For Me

1. How I Landed a Job at Salesforce Through Networking

Many people ask me how I managed to get my role at Salesforce. The answer is simple: networking. When I first started looking for a job in the Netherlands, I used LinkedIn as my primary tool. But instead of just applying to job postings, I took a proactive approach:

  • I optimized my LinkedIn profile: I made sure my profile reflected my skills, certifications, and professional journey. I used a clear and compelling headline and wrote a summary that showcased my passion for technology and innovation.

  • I engaged with industry professionals: Instead of just scrolling through my feed, I actively commented on posts, shared my insights, and connected with people working in Salesforce roles. This helped me stay visible and relevant.

  • I reached out to professionals for informational interviews: I messaged professionals who were already working at Salesforce, expressing my interest in the company and seeking their advice. Some of them were kind enough to share their experiences, and one of these connections eventually led to a referral.

  • I showcased my knowledge: By sharing my thoughts on Salesforce updates, certifications, and AI advancements, I demonstrated my expertise and genuine interest in the field.

Through these efforts, I built meaningful connections that not only helped me land interviews but also gave me valuable insights about the industry. Eventually, my network played a crucial role in getting my foot in the door at Salesforce.

2. Best Practices: My Networking Techniques

Based on my experience, here are some networking best practices that can help you build a strong professional presence:

A. Build a Strong Online Presence

Your LinkedIn profile is your digital business card. Make sure it reflects who you are and what you bring to the table. Here’s what worked for me:

  • A professional profile picture and a compelling headline.

  • A detailed “About” section showcasing my journey, achievements, and future goals.

  • Regularly posting insights about Salesforce, AI, and career growth.

  • Actively engaging with comments and messages from my network.

B. Engage with Industry Leaders

Engagement is key. I made it a habit to interact with posts from industry leaders, participate in discussions, and contribute value to conversations. This helped me get noticed by professionals who mattered.

C. Leverage the Power of Direct Messaging

One of the most effective strategies I used was reaching out to professionals directly. I ensured my messages were:

  • Personalized: Mentioning specific reasons for connecting.

  • Short and Clear: Respecting their time while getting my point across.

  • Value-Oriented: Showing how a connection could be mutually beneficial.

D. Attend Events and Conferences

Apart from online networking, I made it a point to attend Salesforce events, webinars, and local meetups. These events were invaluable in meeting people face-to-face and deepening connections. Here are few Events that I attended. 

  • Women In Tech seminar
  • Google Digital Marketing Workshop
  • Salesforce Events – Here is the link where you can find some groups)
E. Offer Help Before Asking for Help

Networking is a two-way street. I always focused on providing value—whether through sharing a useful resource, offering feedback, or mentoring others. This helped me build long-lasting relationships rather than just transactional connections.

3. Key Learnings from My Networking Journey
A. Consistency Matters

Building a strong professional network doesn’t happen overnight. It requires consistent effort—posting regularly, engaging with content, and nurturing relationships over time.

B. Authenticity Wins

People can tell when you’re genuine versus when you’re just networking for personal gain. I found that being authentic and sharing my true journey resonated more with my network.

C. Giving Back Strengthens Your Network

One of the most rewarding aspects of networking is being able to help others. Whether it’s mentoring refugees at Academy in Calais France or guiding someone on LinkedIn, giving back has helped me grow both personally and professionally.

D. Opportunities Come from Unexpected Places

Some of my best opportunities came from casual conversations, not just structured networking efforts. Keeping an open mind and being willing to explore unexpected connections can lead to incredible opportunities.

4. Final Thoughts: Start Networking Today!

Networking has played a crucial role in my journey—from securing my dream job to growing my influence in the Salesforce and AI space. If you’re looking to expand your career, start by building meaningful relationships, engaging consistently, and offering value to others.

Your next big opportunity could be just one connection away!