Most professionals understand the value of networking; the problem is that we don’t do enough or the right way. That’s why “networking more” — especially in joining new professional associations — is essential for the new year’s resolution.

By Emile Fakhoury
I am privileged to be part of the Association for Project Management (APM), the chartered body for the project profession.

We recently held a networking event in Dubai with a diverse group of corporate partners, members, Chartered Project Professionals, and Fellows. At such events, we connect and share ideas, reflecting the strength of our community and its commitment to advancing the profession regionally and globally.

I met some interesting people and was honoured to establish a good connection with them.

We are relatively new to the UAE regional association, having previously had a few shy sessions. The connections seem to develop naturally, as we are all eager to network more and more correctly.

APM UAE Regional Network 

However, to continue into 2025 and develop your networks, you must establish strategies for enjoying and benefiting from your association. I wanted to list a few strategies to make your networking ‘the right way’.

1-Networking
We all know one group member who can help us break in. This person was the first to initiate the group formation and can introduce you and provide background information and context so the members can relate to each other.

The first 15 minutes of each group gathering session are essential for reminding ourselves of the group context and objectives. It would be best if you didn’t rely only on that person but seek help from another person in the group who makes you feel comfortable and confident, expanding your networks.

Keep expanding your networking but focus on quality rather than quantity. This will support your career growth and development.

2- Your Commitment
The first few moments of your conversation will almost always be essential and filled with small talk as you figure out who’s who and learn how things work in that group.

You would notice other members having deep discussions at different levels.

Don’t make the judgment at your first meeting. Instead, reserve judgment and commit to meeting regularly and getting to know your group members to help you understand the dynamics of this new committee.

Remember why you joined this committee: to grow your networks and give back to the profession. Committing to your growth will help you open new doors that bring added value to your network.

3- Check your assumptions
Each person would have different objectives from these networking events.

It’s possible that some would only want to hang out with other senior professionals, while others could be looking to catch up with colleagues or friends.

Check your assumptions as you understand them and get to know them before categorising or judging others. It’s worth stress-testing your perspective with trusted friends and colleagues before settling on an adverse judgment.

Even for experienced professionals, it can be uncomfortable to enter a social situation where it seems like everyone else knows one another while you’re making small talk with others.

But by following these strategies, you can transform those new contacts into valuable networks.

4-Filter and follow up
After your meetings, organise and filter your connections so you can remember your discussions.

Look for natural and professional ways to connect with your network and develop relationships so your following discussion is deep and fruitful.

Networking is a vital part of professional development in any industry. Your network will not help you find a job directly, but it will open doors and windows for you to look at smartly and support your professional growth.

As we look forward to 2025, I look forward to being part of the APM UAE Regional Network to develop my network and raise awareness of project management as a vital profession in the region.