5 WHY: You need support, not just knowledge. HOW: Build authentic relationships, not just LinkedIn or Facebook connections. Be generous and listen deeply. WHAT: These people will show up for you, not just when things go well, but when you’re stuck or unsure. It’s your circle of resilience. WHY: Make a difference. HOW: Collaborate. Volunteer. Say yes to conversations and events that feel aligned with your mission. WHAT: Your network can amplify your impact, connecting you with causes, ideas, and communities you might not have found on your own. WHY: Serving others, leaving a legacy, not just a job title. HOW: Invest in long-term relationships. Mentor. Be mentored. Share knowledge freely. WHAT: The ripple effect of your network means your influence and the good you do extend far beyond your role or company. Networking isn’t a one-time event or a task to check off a list. It’s a mindset. It’s about showing up early, consistently, and with heart. Networking is about remembering that the people around you are part of your journey, just as you are part of theirs. The strength of your network isn’t only about who you know—it’s about the depth of the relationships you’ve built and how they evolve over time. At this stage in your career, cultivating these connections is less about volume and more about impact. Nurture them intentionally, as you would a longterm investment, and you’ll find that the exchange of knowledge, support, opportunity, and shared purpose continues to yield dividends that sustain and elevate your professional journey well into the future. Want more great advice like this? Subscribe to the AgCareers Weekly e-newsletter at www.agcareers.com/ newsletter-signup.cfm FOOD & AGRICULTURE PROFESSIONAL CAREER GUIDE 3 4 5 PHOTO: Ethan – stock.adobe.com
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