How experienced women are building stronger, smarter networks for the next chapter of their careers
Experience Is Your Superpower — Now Let It Work for You
If you’re over 60 and building a consulting business, starting a new chapter, or exploring portfolio work, you already possess what most people seek: deep experience, proven results, and trusted intuition.
What you need now isn’t more hustle. It’s strategic networking — built on your wisdom, not anyone else’s playbook.
Forget the idea that networking is for the young and eager. At this stage, it’s about deepening existing relationships, reconnecting with purpose, and making intentional moves that create real opportunity.
Reconnect First: Your Past Network Holds Present Value
Before chasing new connections, look to the network you’ve already built — colleagues, clients, collaborators, even those on the edge of your circle.
“A lot of times we think we don’t have a network when we really do.” — Melisa Liberman
Practical Actions:
- List everyone you’ve worked with, from peers to managers and clients.
- Reintroduce yourself with context: what you’re doing now, and where you’re heading.
- Ask directly: “Is there someone you know who might benefit from what I do?”
These aren’t cold calls. These are warm reactivations. You’re not just selling — you’re updating, inviting, and exchanging value.
“Let people know. You never know who might open a door.” — Lisa Ross-Marcus
Define Your Networking Goals First
Clarity leads to confidence. Ask yourself:
- Are you looking for new clients or paid opportunities?
- Would mentorship or peer support help this next chapter?
- Are you open to collaboration or cross-referrals?
Your intention drives your method. When you network with clarity, others sense your purpose.
Sensible Ways to Build Connections That Stick
Once your goals are clear, focus your energy on high-value actions that build trust, visibility, and opportunity
1. Use LinkedIn Like a Pro
It’s not just a resume platform. It’s your digital handshake.
- Update your profile to reflect what you offer now
- Write a compelling headline with clarity and tone
- Post content, comment thoughtfully, and share insight
“Don’t just use canned language… say something relevant and specific.” — Karen Wickre
Pro Tip: Follow key contacts and hit the bell (found on the top right hand side of their LinkedIn Profile) to get notified when they post. Stay visible by being meaningfully engaged.
2. Show Up at the Right Events (Online & In Real Life)
From curated meetups to expert panels and virtual roundtables — industry spaces still matter.
- Attend with purpose: Who might you meet? What would you offer?
- Practice your 30-second self-introduction: Who you are, what you do, and why it matters now
Don’t collect cards. Collect conversations.
3. Join Professional Associations or Peer Groups
This isn’t about padding your CV — it’s about community.
- Choose groups aligned with your field or new direction
- Participate actively: offer insight, ask thoughtful questions, connect offline
Consistency builds familiarity. Familiarity breeds trust.
4. Lead with Generosity
True networking is not extraction — it’s contribution.
“If I feel I can help, I will. Even if there’s a disconnect.” — Anna Molnár
Share what you know. Introduce people to each other. Offer insight freely. It builds natural reciprocity and genuine influence.
Follow Up = Follow Through
The real power lies in what comes after the handshake.
- Send a note within 72 hours — remind them of the conversation and suggest how to stay in touch
- Share a relevant article or opportunity they’d value
- If you introduced two people, circle back and ask how it went
“There’s etiquette. Follow through on introductions.” — Karen Wickre
This is how strangers become collaborators — or clients.
Confidence Isn’t a Trait — It’s a Practice
Networking discomfort is common. Especially if it’s been a while. Confidence doesn’t have to mean loudness. It can mean clarity, presence, and self-trust.
“I want to be more confident… but what does that mean for you?” — Lisa Ross-Marcus
Confidence Builders
- Set small goals: one meaningful connection per event
- Prep your story: who you help, how, and why
- Remind yourself: your experience is not up for debate
And remember: many others feel this too. Sharing your journey gives others permission to open up.
Networking After 60 Isn’t Just About What’s Next — It’s About What’s Now
You’ve earned your stripes. Now, you get to curate your connections, choose your collaborators, and lead with intention.
Networking isn’t about being everywhere. It’s about being in the right conversations — and showing up as the wise, valuable presence you already are.
References
Melisa Liberman—Mastering the Art of Value-Based Consulting
Lisa Ross-Marcus-a remarkable executive coach
Karen Wickre
Taking The Work Out of Networking
Connected and Confident: Karen Wickre’s Networking Guide for Independent Professionals
Anna Molnár Unlocking the Potential of Women In Business