When it comes to networking, not all connections are created equal. In my last post, I focused on the value of peer networking, which is often overlooked. Many young people don’t realize that their peers—classmates, colleagues, and people their own age—are the ones most likely to help them advance. We tend to overcomplicate networking by looking for high-level connections, not realizing that the most impactful relationships may be right next to us.
That said, there’s undeniable value in what we traditionally think of when we think of networking. If you’re looking to pursue a career in law, for example, connecting with attorneys and judges is essential.
Lateral/Peer Networking: Peer mentoring involves building relationships with individuals at similar stages in their careers or life. This type of networking offers mutual support and guidance, grounded in shared experiences and perspectives.
Vertical Networking: Vertical networking, on the other hand, is a hierarchical relationship. It connects individuals with someone further along in their career or life path who can offer guidance, advice, and mentorship from an experienced perspective.
Benefits of Vertical Networking
Access to Opportunities: Vertical networking can open doors to job offers, internships, shadowing experiences, and other career-advancing prospects. Professionals in your field often have the connections and influence to help you take the next step in your career.
Exposure to Career Options: One of the greatest advantages of vertical networking is learning about careers you may not have considered—or even known existed. For many low-income, first-generation students, career aspirations are often limited to the "big three" (doctor, lawyer, engineer) due to a lack of exposure. Vertical networking introduces you to a wealth of career options, sparking new interests and possibilities.
Wisdom: Those further along in their careers have already navigated the challenges you’re facing. They can share invaluable insights, lessons learned, and strategies for success. By avoiding the mistakes they’ve already made, you can save time, money, and unnecessary stress.
Letters of Recommendation: A strong professional network often includes individuals who are willing to vouch for you. Vertical networking relationships can lead to powerful letters of recommendation that boost your applications for schools, jobs, or internships.
How to Meet High-Level Contacts
There’s no single right way to meet people in your field, but there are various ways to increase your chances of connecting with the right individuals. Some of my own legal mentors were the attorneys who represented me in my case with the Florida Board of Governors, former supervisors from political internships, people my peers introduced me to, and individuals I met at conferences.
The key is to focus on building a full and abundant social life by placing yourself in environments where you’re likely to share common interests. When you intentionally professionalize your life, the rooms you enter and events you attend will naturally gravitate toward helping you build your network. Starting with peer networking and building a solid foundation in undergrad can often lead to more high-level connections down the line.
It’s also important to remember that the people you network with don’t always have to hold the highest titles. Sometimes, the executive assistant or staff assistant to a high-level person can be your best resource in making future connections.
How to Effectively Cultivate Relationships with High-Level Contacts
When I network with someone older and further along in their career, I naturally consider them a mentor. One of my top tips for maintaining a strong relationship with a mentor is to regularly stay in touch by updating them on your accomplishments and progress. I also make a point to wish them happy holidays and send birthday messages if I know when their birthday is.
The key is not to only reach out when you need something—such as asking for a letter of recommendation or job referral. By maintaining communication outside of asking for favors, you show that you appreciate the relationship and view them as more than just a professional connection. These people are busy, so sending quick updates, such as letting them know you’ve secured an internship or received a fellowship, allows you to stay in contact without feeling like you’re pestering them.
When I visit cities where my mentors live, I let them know so we can grab coffee or lunch. By nurturing these relationships and treating them like friendships, you increase the chances of them wanting to make time for you in their busy schedules. Networking is all about building genuine relationships, even if those people are more experienced or older than you.
Conclusion
Both lateral and vertical networking have unique benefits. Lateral networking builds camaraderie, support systems, and peer accountability, while vertical networking opens doors to opportunities, career insights, and professional wisdom. Recognizing the value of both and cultivating a mix of these relationships will set you on the path to success.
