Networking, community, connection, synergy, contacts, friends, colleagues, comrades, buddies, or companions. We have so many names and ways to categorize connectivity with other people, yet the basics of how to make friends and build relationships can be challenging for many of us. Why do some people buzz in the middle of the room or have a large presence on social media? Is it because they are better in some way than others? I think not; they have often done the hard work at some point in creating their community intentionally, and I’d like to share a few ideas of how this can be done.

Networking plays an important role for nurses. From attaining that clinical rotation and building a network of nurses to support each other in getting jobs, to specific needs like having a doctor vouch for you when working on a complicated medical case if you are an APRN. Networking in nursing can even affect how people are able to get care. Not to mention, nurses need community! When you’ve worked three back-to-back 12 hour shifts, it’s important to have people in your corner who understand what you are going through.

Here are 3 ideas that may be helpful in your work or social space to expand your community intentionally. 

1. Show up in the places that bring like minded people together.
• This can feel overwhelming at first since you could be showing up to a room full of people you don’t know (yet!). Take this first step and ease into connecting with others by asking questions, sharing experiences, or offering to help.
2. Start asking questions.
• Learning the group norms by asking questions can help set us up for success when building relationships. By understanding how the community interacts with each other, we are more likely to connect with others quickly.
• Once comfortable with asking group questions, start asking people relationship building questions. These questions don’t need to be too personal; start with more generic, accessible topics. Easy examples can be:
• What brought you to this group?
• What do you do with your time outside of this group?
• Why do you like to participate with this group?
• Remember that we are all experts at ourselves, so asking someone an open ended question about who they are can show you some of the important factors in their life. We can ask about family, pets, hobbies, or sports & recreation.
3. Be direct and ask plainly for your needs.
• If you are looking to build a dynamic relationship that involves exchange of information or mentor/mentee opportunities, go directly for it!
• Be transparent about your goals and interests
• Ask pointed questions that get you results, that could be “What is your biggest challenge outside of time or money?”

Lastly, meeting new people and tending to young relationships is FUN! It can feel a lot like dating, and there is potential for let down or disappointment; however, the connectivity with a community reaps such great rewards. It is worth the minor risk.

Wondering where you can build community with like minded people? Join the NSRH membership to gain access to a trusted community of nurses disrupting the status quo to serve patients with dignity and care. We are here to support you.