8 Networking Tips for Women in Leadership to Build Your Power Circle

By the time you’ve reached a leadership position, you likely already understand the power of networking. After all, building strong connections probably helped you climb the corporate ladder. But what happens when you’re at the top? 

The dynamics of networking shift as you move into executive roles, requiring a more strategic approach. High-status networking requires homing in on powerful, mutually beneficial relationships that open doors to new opportunities, industry insights, and influence.

Women networking overcome workplace challenges

The Women in the Workplace 2024 report offers valuable insights into the current landscape, emphasizing the growing significance of networking for women. While there has been progress in women's representation and the implementation of supportive company initiatives, the workplace experience for many women remains challenging. 

Women now hold 29% of C-suite positions, up from 17% in 2015. However, progress has been much slower at the entry and manager levels, where women continue to encounter significant barriers to advancement. Women of color, in particular, remain vastly underrepresented, holding just 7% of C-suite roles compared to 22% of white women. At the current pace, it could take over 20 years for women to be fully represented in senior leadership roles.

When the company structure doesn’t always support you, what can you do to advance your career? Network. 

A 2023 survey by Chief, which included 751 women at or above the management level in the U.S., revealed that networking was a key factor in helping women achieve major career milestones, from securing board positions to reaching the C-suite. In addition to supporting individual career growth, networking also brought broader operational and revenue benefits to organizations.

“Women are conditioned to believe that vulnerability and asking for help demonstrate weakness,” says Yolanda M. Owens, a career coach at The Muse. “But sometimes, it can be beneficial to cultivate allies to propel your growth and development, even at the most senior levels.”

Women in networking must stick together

Engaging with networking groups for women, attending women networking events, and offering mentorship or sponsorship to emerging female leaders can create a supportive environment filled with others who truly understand the challenges we face.

“Female leaders constitute a small group, and a lot is required of them professionally and personally, often making them feel isolated,” Owens says. Women networking groups can help alleviate these feelings of isolation, especially in male-dominated industries. These connections can also open the door to new leadership opportunities.

Networking strategies for women in leadership

You need allies. But what's the right approach to get to them? Here are top networking tips for women in leadership.

1. Set networking goals and determine your objectives

Networking should be intentional. Ask yourself: What do you want to achieve? Are you looking for board opportunities, investment funding, or partnerships? By setting clear networking objectives, you can focus your efforts on building the right relationships rather than simply collecting contacts.

2. Establish your power network

Your power network should include people who can support, advise, and challenge you. “You need a network of highly resourceful advocates to help position you for opportunities at the leadership level,” Owens says. 

This means connecting with industry leaders, decision-makers, and influential professionals. Identify key individuals who align with your career goals and look for opportunities to engage with them through conferences, leadership forums, and industry associations.

Ask yourself what kind of support you’ll need in the long term. Then, be selective in developing intentional gain relationships that will propel you toward those future goals. This may require you to explore unfamiliar territories. But remember, being uncomfortable is integral to any growth or advancement.

3. Find mentors and sponsors

At this stage in your career, you may already be mentoring others—but don’t forget that you still need mentors and sponsors yourself.

“Having a sounding board and safe space for navigating everything including work politics, advancement obstacles, work-life balance, and imposter syndrome is crucial for self-care and continuous development at the leadership level,” Owens says. “I recommend having two mentors—one within your organization that can help plot your course and advocate for you in rooms you’re not in, and another mentor outside of your organization so you can feel safe being completely transparent.” 

A mentor provides guidance and insights, while a sponsor actively advocates for you in high-level discussions. Seek out established leaders who can help you navigate executive challenges and introduce you to influential circles.

Read this next: 6 Tips For Finding Someone To Mentor You At Work

4. Network with colleagues and industry peers

Building relationships with fellow executives is just as important as networking externally. Engage with colleagues across departments and industries to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange. Consider joining executive networking groups or leadership roundtables to connect with peers who share similar challenges and experiences.

5. Pitch for company funding and leadership buy-in

If you’re looking to launch a new initiative, expand your team, or drive a company-wide change, networking within your organization is crucial. Strengthen relationships with decision-makers who control budgets and key resources. Make a strong case for your ideas and show how they align with the company’s goals.

6. Increase confidence in high-stakes networking

One of the biggest hurdles women face in networking is self-doubt. If you tend to undervalue your experience and hesitate to advocate for yourself, it's time to learn how to overcome these feelings. To combat this, prepare a confident pitch about who you are, what you bring to the table, and what you’re looking for in your network.

7. Leverage online platforms strategically

LinkedIn and other professional networking platforms can be powerful tools for building high-status connections. Engage with thought leaders by commenting on their posts, sharing insightful content, and reaching out with personalized messages. Joining exclusive online leadership groups can also provide access to valuable discussions and opportunities.

Read this next: 23 LinkedIn Tips That Will Take Your Profile From Average To A+

8. Offer value to your network

Networking is a two-way street. Instead of focusing solely on what you can gain, consider how you can support and add value to your connections. Whether it’s making introductions, sharing industry insights, or offering mentorship, a give-first approach strengthens your relationships and increases your influence.

Is there a price women pay for networking with high-status people?

There is no hidden cost to networking—there are only benefits. For many women, the top can be a lonely place, where you constantly have to fight for space even after you’ve earned it. But that’s where networking for women in leadership becomes even more crucial.

By strategically building high-status relationships, investing in other women, and leveraging your influence, you can continue expanding your impact and creating new opportunities. The key is to network with intention, confidence, and a willingness to both give and receive value.