Striking a Balance Between Professional Growth, Networking and Parenthood

For many women in business, networking can be a daunting task. This is especially true for those who are also balancing the responsibilities of parenting. Finding time for networking can seem like an overwhelming challenge, but it's possible to strike a balance between nurturing your career and your family with the right strategies.

Understanding the Challenge

As parents, our responsibilities don't pause when professional opportunities arise. This means that school pick-ups, bedtime stories, and weekend sports games are just as important as client meetings and networking events. The challenge is finding a way to make room for both.

Tips for Harmonious Balancing

Here are some strategies that can help you balance networking and parenting:

1. Select Family-Friendly Networking Events: Many organisations are becoming more inclusive of parents. Look for networking events that offer child-friendly environments or are at family-friendly times. Some events might even offer childcare services, making it easier for you to engage without worry. Psst!! At Mib International Ireland Northern Ireland, we host child-friendly networking.

2. Virtual Networking Options: The digital age has broadened how we connect with others. Participate in webinars, join online forums, or attend virtual networking events that you can engage in from the comfort of your home after your children's bedtime. We offer online calls every Monday at Midday GMT or monthly online sessions with the Head Networking Leader for Ireland Northern Ireland, Aisling Owens Nash.

3. Integrate Networking into Family Activities: Consider opportunities where business and pleasure mix. Industry picnics, community service days, or company-sponsored family events can be great for making new connections while also spending time with your family.

4. Set Networking Goals: When time is limited, efficiency becomes key. Set clear, achievable goals for each networking opportunity—whether that's making a certain number of new contacts or arranging follow-up meetings. This helps ensure that the time spent away from family is productive and purposeful.

Embracing the Dual Role

Balancing networking with parenting doesn't mean sacrificing one for the other. By integrating both roles, you can create a richer, more fulfilling experience in each. Let’s be honest, children are great ice breakers too! Remember, the skills you use as a parent—like time management, empathy, and multitasking—are invaluable in the networking world.

Networking as a Learning Opportunity for Your Children

Involving your children in your professional life where appropriate can also be beneficial. It teaches them the importance of building relationships, personal growth, and balancing various aspects of life. When they see you networking effectively, they learn crucial social skills and the value of professional development. My children have gained so many skills and great confidence attending events with me, and my middle child Ethan, is now as much of a feature and a host at our bigger events as I am and I think many regular attendees would be disappointed if he weren’t seen wandering across the stage or under it during my speaking sessions!

The Takeaway- no not a chipper one!

Balancing networking and parenting may seem daunting, but it's undoubtedly possible with the right approach. By choosing the right opportunities, leveraging technology, and integrating your professional and personal life, you can make meaningful connections without missing out on precious family moments.

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