Networking

Why is networking important?

As you transition from sport, you will learn the great benefits from networking! You enter into a world of people who want to connect with you.
​Expanding your network allows you to:

• Connect with colleges, mentors, and partners
• Expand support network
• Learn from your network's experience
• Exchange ideas and opinions 
• Boost your self-esteem
• Increase access to resources for career development
• Develop and improve your skill sets
• Job opportunities 

An important thing to note about networking is that it doesn't have to be in the form of networking events or networking platforms. While these opportunities are great, there are many instances where you can make organic connections with people who are already in your life! Networking is about establishing long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with people you meet or already know. Once you have networking in your mind, you will see opportunities for it everywhere. 

Two keys to successful networking:
1. Reaching out
The hardest part about networking for people is the first step. Reaching out to your network can be intimidating. You will be amazed by the amount of people who are eager to help you! Even if it is just meeting for coffee to learn about someone's profession and experience in an industry. More often than not, people are happy to help others. So all you have to do is take the first step and the rest will come naturally! And the more you do it, the easier it gets. 

2. Following up
The most important part about securing and maintaining connections is to follow up with people. This is especially important with people who have given you their time to help. It doesn't have to be anything big, but you should always send a note after thanking them for their time and advice. 
LinkedIn is also a great tool for securing a connection that you made in person. After connecting with someone in person, invite them to your LinkedIn network with a personal message. 

NxStage wants to help CKO Sprint athletes with networking. We have access to a great pool of current and past athletes who have interests and experience in industries across the board!
​
We have created two alumni groups for CKO Sprint alumni to connect on.

1. Join our general CKO Sprint alumni facebook group: 

• This will be a open forum for discussion and upcoming events for alumni

​We also have a CKO Sprint alumni LinkedIn group for alumni to make professional connections and to find other athletes in their industry. 
2. Join our LinkedIn CKO Sprint alumni: 

join cko sprint alumni fb group

join cko spint linkedin alumni group