Women in business face unique professional challenges. In addition to juggling both personal and professional duties, as well as navigating male-dominated fields, women also face systemic biases that can impact their career potential.
A well-considered strategy to build a network and support system is a great way for women to overcome these common obstacles, but it can be difficult to know how exactly to go about finding community in the business sector.
As experts, the members of Forbes Business Council have repeatedly encountered career challenges. Below, 19 of them share their experiences, as well as the strategies they’ve used to build a powerful network and support system that have helped them have long-term career growth.
1. Be Authentic
It’s all about being real and using authenticity to build relationships that make a difference. By sharing the lows and the highs, I’ve created a trusted network of support and empowerment. It’s a competitive market out there, but there’s only one you. I tell all women to lean into who they are because authenticity fosters strong, genuine connections that create community and open doors for career growth. – Sarah Barnes-Humphrey, Let’s Talk Supply Chain
2. Join Extracurricular Organizations And Attend Events
I’m a great believer in building as large a network of professional women and men as possible. To do so, I’ve joined organizations, volunteered and attended lunch and evening events that are related to my professional work. I try to follow up with everyone I meet professionally. I’ve also found it tremendously helpful to seek out an experienced mentor. – Karen Cashion, Tech Alpharetta
3. Prioritize Purpose
Build your network around purpose, not just presence. For me, showing up at the right industry events and truly participating has created relationships that outlast roles and drive real growth. Instead of just collecting contacts, invest in meaningful connections. That’s where long-term support and leadership begin. – Sonali Nair, Segment Agency
4. Deliver Unparalleled Results
Success in business starts with excellence. Women often face outdated biases, but I refuse to let that define me. My strategy is to deliver unparalleled results every time. I operate with a relentless commitment to quality, knowing that the best work speaks louder than stereotypes. By setting the highest standards, I ensure no one can question my value. My advice is to outperform, outshine and own your success! – Hoda Mahmoodzadegan, Molly’s Milk Truck
Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify?
5. Show Interest In Others
I am curious and sincerely interested in others’ opinions and feedback. I am also interested in hearing about other kinds of businesses and industries, so I’ve built a network of interdisciplinary people and experts who enrich all my ventures. I recommend this strategy because it not only expands your vision but also helps you get unique contributions. – Ana Valdez, Latino Donor Collaborative
6. Build Connections Beyond Your Organization
Women should build strong external networks beyond their own organizations. Women who cultivate outside connections are more adaptable and successful when changing roles. It’s also important to keep networking over time. I’ve found that even a decade later, chance encounters can lead to new opportunities, from career advancements to key introductions that make a lasting impact. – Alexa Kimball, Harvard Medical Faculty Physicians at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
7. Treat Every Relationship With Care And Intention
Every relationship takes care and intention. When I meet other women, I think about how I can help, create connections and deliver value to serve the relationship. You can’t delegate relationship-building. My go-to response is “yes” when someone reaches out. If I can help, I will; if I can’t help, I will make a new connection for them. – Linda Varrell, Broadreach Public Relations
8. Seek Connections In Diverse Industries And Roles
There is a power in diversity, and this also applies to networks. By connecting and building relationships with people in different industries and roles, you have the power of perspectives other than your own. – Nora Herting, ImageThink
9. Be A ‘Connector’
I always try to think about whom in my network I can introduce to others. In his book The Tipping Point, Malcolm Gladwell calls this being a “connector.” I believe that adding value without expecting anything in return is one of the most effective ways to grow. When I spot an opportunity to help someone, I don’t hesitate. Over time, this mindset has made a big difference. – Noa Eshed, Bold Digital Architects
10. Lead With Value
I built my network by leading with value, not just connections. Instead of “networking,” I show up ready to help—offering insights, making introductions and creating spaces where women can win together. The key is to stop chasing seats at existing tables and start building the rooms where powerful women belong. – Dr. Christina Carter, Her Practice®
11. Get To Know The Women You Meet
I’ve built a strong network by getting to know the women I meet. Then, I stand up for them and support them in any way I can. Promote them on social media, ask for their opinion in meetings and meet with them to see how you can help each other. Doing these things also helps my career. Also, let go of the people who don’t reciprocate, as there are plenty of people who will want to partner with you. – Laureen Knudsen, Empower Consultant Group
12. Surround Yourself With People Who Support And Push You
One of the most impactful things I’ve done for my career is intentionally surrounding myself with people who challenge, support and push me to grow—and I do the same for them. I’d encourage any woman in business to invest in authentic relationships that inspire and stretch them because when we lift each other up, we all go further. Real growth and success aren’t built alone. – Maren Perry, Arden Coaching
13. Leverage Social Media
One strategy I’ve used is leveraging social media platforms to connect with inspiring women in my field. By engaging with their content and joining relevant groups, I’ve built a supportive network that offers advice and opportunities. I’d recommend this to other women because it’s a powerful way to gain diverse insights and foster genuine relationships that support your career growth. – Vicky Owens, Socially Speaking Media
14. Seek Out Peer Groups
While participating in a mastermind group with the goal of growing my business and growing as a business owner, I met a group of women who became my support system. Having this group of like-minded female business owners who share similar goals has been so impactful to me. I recommend all women in business seek out other women who will support them, learn alongside them and cheer them on. – Sarah Williams, Launch Your Box
15. Build Small, Close-Knit Communities
One strategy that’s worked well for me is building small, close-knit communities. This can include career circles, book clubs, informal meetups or even workday lunches. These are spaces where people can show up authentically to share, learn and grow. Over time, they’ve become my strongest support system. It’s not about transactional relationships but about being genuinely invested in others’ well-being and paying it forward. – Ishita Mehta, Hellofresh
16. Form Mentor Relationships
A powerful strategy for women in business to build a strong network and support system is actively seeking out nurturing mentorship relationships, both as a mentee and mentor. Women in business face unique challenges, from breaking into male-dominated industries to balancing leadership with personal responsibilities. A network of mentors and peers provides encouragement, insights and strategic advice. – Magda Paslaru, THE RAINBOWIDEA
17. Mutually Listen To And Support Others
I’ve built a brilliant and powerful network over many years, and it’s been the most valuable thing I’ve ever done. My strategy has always been to listen to and support others as much as I lean on them. Mentor the next generation as they climb up the ladder. Be open and curious, always look out for others and find ways to connect people. If you do this, your network will look after you without you even knowing it. – Kate Woodyatt Hudson, WH Communications Ltd
18. Start A Podcast
One of the most impactful things I’ve done to build my network was to start a podcast. I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many inspiring and motivating women, many of whom have become friends and part of my support system. It’s also been a great tool for growing my business, as well as connecting other women to each other and seeing the results of those relationships. – Melissa Johnson, E3 Coaching LLC
19. Leverage Strategic Reciprocity
Leverage strategic reciprocity to actively support others before you need anything in return. I built my network by connecting people, sharing insights and creating value without immediate expectations. This fosters trust and long-term relationships, making it easier to access opportunities, mentorship and advocacy when it matters most. – Miriam Groom, Mindful Career
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