Get Connected: How To Make A Professional Connection

Networking isn’t new, but the way we network has changed dramatically in the last two years. Now, more than ever, women are looking to grow their personal and professional networks through their social channels, so it’s not surprising that today most people find their next job through their existing contacts.

When Bumble launched Bumble Bizz in 2017, the women behind the social networking app knew the next step users wanted to see: a place to make new connections with people who could become business contacts, mentors or partners and broaden their professional horizons. Designed as a place for women to connect, share and learn, Bumble Bizz believes networking shouldn’t feel hard or uncomfortable. Instead, it creates a platform to develop meaningful connections and grow your network on your own terms.

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We spoke with Michelle Battersby, the Associate Marketing Director APAC Bumble, about the importance of networking and why she believes mentoring should be a two-way street.

What are your best career tips on networking?

Make the first move! Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there if you want to make a connection.
Be clear on your expectations - I get approached a lot by young people wanting to get into the industry who say they’d love to get a coffee and pick my brain, but they rarely state exactly what they hope to learn. Understand that people are busy and if you aren’t clear on what you are hoping to learn from them, they might not think they are the best option for you.
Use an app - Bumble Bizz is the perfect way to network professionally. Through the app you can see other professionals in your local area and decide whether or not you share common interests.
Attend events - while we live in the digital age, don’t forget the power of a face-to-face connection. At Bumble we regularly run panel events where our users can attend for free to hear from inspirational business people - this is a great opportunity to meet people while getting some great advice! Be on the lookout on the Bumble Bizz app for the next one.

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Having smashed the glass ceiling herself, Michelle is a well-qualified judge for the inaugural marie claire x Bumble Glass Ceiling Awards, a celebration of game-changing companies and trailblazing women who are smashing gender boundaries in the workplace. These awards are providing an opportunity to celebrate the advances that have been forged for working women, and a chance to reflect on the positive changes made in workplaces around Australia – and to celebrate those at the forefront of this movement.

Do you know a powerhouse female who’s smashing the glass ceiling in her industry or making positive change in her community? Celebrate her achievements by nominating her for the “Making Moves Award” at the marie claire + Bumble Glass Ceiling Awards, supported by Estée Lauder, held on June 19 in Sydney.

It’s a cinch: Simply download the Bumble app and match with the marie claire x Bumble Glass Ceiling Awards in-app card to nominate her.

Nominations open at 9am AEST Monday, 20 May 2019, and close at 5pm AEST Thursday, 6 June 2019. Winner to be advised on Thursday, 13 June 2019, and publicly announced on Wednesday, 19 June 2019. Only women aged 18 and over who reside in Australia can be nominated for this award. For full terms and conditions go to marieclaire.com.au.