The Power Within: Networking and Collaboration in Social Work
by Chaundra Scott, MSW, LMSW
Networking and collaboration are big terms heard throughout social work. Now, you may not hear of them within your direct social work setting, but you will hear of these terms outside of the "office." That old adage of it's not what you know but who you know comes to mind.
According to Oxford Languages, networking can be defined as "the action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts." Oxford Languages defines collaboration as "the action of working with someone to produce or create something."
Given those definitions and the art of the helping profession culture, it seems like a no-brainer, right? To me, it is. As a new social worker back in 2004, I didn't know of or utilize the art of networking and collaboration. My initial career start was extremely challenging because of this. Networking and collaboration can open doors that job offerings, experience, and interviewing may not. My first job in social work resulted in a one-year contract position through AmeriCorps—The Choice Program. It was a great experience that truly taught me a lot. However, I wasn't prepared for life after the contract. I missed opportunities to work with staff in other departments, to volunteer for new initiatives, and to advocate for longer contract terms.
Early on, I also didn't even see the value of staying in touch with former colleagues. That's networking 101! You may need a job down the road, and if you keep those doors open, then you can connect to your next opportunity in your career. But for this to occur, you have to nurture your connections with people. Build rapport, build relationships, and be resourceful. The networking cannot be one-sided and in a give, give, give instance. People can sense a lack of authenticity a mile away. So go into networking and collaboration with a genuine spirit.
Operating in kindness by checking up on someone, sharing a resource with them, or even taking someone out for coffee are all great ways to kindle a positive networking experience. Before you can successfully start the networking process, you have to assess your surroundings, support system, and what you bring to the table.
I love using a S.W.O.T analysis to do this. A S.W.O.T analysis will allow you to assess your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Actually writing out these items and physically seeing them can help you visualize how your networking will start and where your opportunities lie.
If you're wondering how to get started with your professional networking, these tips are also for you once you assess your situation.
- Invest in small talk. It’s the best way to get to know others. This can easily be done by eating lunch at your job site's cafeteria or lunchroom. Food is the best way to break the ice. "Oh, your lunch looks delicious." "That meal looks great. Do you have a recipe?" Or even, "I like _____ also, and the ____ restaurant has one of the best versions."
- Be pleasant. I actually walk around the office smiling and make it a habit to say "Hello," "Good morning," or "How are you?" when passing others in the building or hallways. It helps to break the ice and build further connections. One staff person could be having a rough day or dealing with a difficult case, but your pleasantries can uplift their mood and help you network.
- Make time outside of work. The occasional happy hour or luncheon invites with colleagues are great ways to build a networking relationship. But you have to invest your time in attending.
- Seek memberships. In social work, there are tons of organizations that allow opportunities not only for networking but also for professional development. You can join an organization to attend its events, get career advice/resources, obtain CEU hours, attend general meetings, and even engage in community outreach. Such organizations as NASW and NABSW have local chapters in every state.
- Use social media. There are dozens of social work groups online that offer a free and safe space to network and learn. Don't just scroll on Facebook or Instagram, but take advantage of the established social work communities. Group members seek information on various topics, such as licensing, job opportunities, training, higher education, trending news, and events. Many people even arrange local meet-up events to establish more networking.
Now that you've established how to assess your networking skills and how to engage in networking, it's time to collaborate. If you're comfortable, take your networking a step further by connecting through collaboration. It can be as simple as working with a colleague in social work on:
- A college assignment
- A research project
- Community outreach
- A self-care activity
- Exercise
- A business venture
- A podcast episode, or
- A social media live interview.
The purpose is to build your confidence in yourself as you navigate your way within the helping profession. You are in social work for a reason, and your skills will make room for you. Trust yourself to embrace networking and collaboration as you ground yourself in social work.
Chaundra Scott, MSW, LMSW, is a Maryland-based authorpreneur, volleyball mom, and freelance writer. Her career in social work has spanned more than 15 years with experience in child welfare, case management, community outreach, and engagement. She has served as a wealth of knowledge in seeking and accessing various resources, whether for professional development or for the clients she serves. In 2022, she created The Wellness Collective brand, which houses a social work magazine, media relation services, special events, social work accessories/apparel, and upcoming therapeutic services. She truly believes that social workers should expand beyond their office titles to create their own desired career paths. She is also a self-published author of more than seven books. When she isn't writing or serving in her community, she enjoys spending time with her daughter. She also enjoys crafting, planning events, and binging her favorite television shows. Chaundra is currently seeking her DSW to further her social work passions in leadership, administration, mental health awareness, and community outreach. Connect with her at https://linktr.ee/thee_wellnesscollective.