The Importance of Professional Networking: Tips for Special Librarians

Nobody has ever described me as extroverted. In fact, I am much more comfortable sitting at home with a book than I am pretty much anywhere else. However, over the years, I have found that taking a purposeful approach to my career means that I need to spend time meeting people and building professional relationships.  

Shifting Your Mindset 

To my surprise, over time, these professional interactions became more than just obligations. Each conversation offered a window into different perspectives, unique experiences, and novel ideas. While the initial moments of networking events still create that familiar flutter of anxiety, I have discovered genuine enjoyment in these exchanges. The key was shifting my mindset from viewing networking as a “necessary evil” to seeing it as an opportunity for mutual learning and professional growth. 

I am very thankful I did not let my natural inclination to stay home and avoid growing my professional network stop me from cultivating productive and worthwhile professional relationships.  

Thriving on Reciprocity 

As my career has advanced, I have come to understand an essential truth about professional relationships: they thrive on reciprocity. This realization has shaped my approach to giving back to my professional community. When younger colleagues seek guidance, when peers need introductions, or when someone requires feedback on a project, I view these requests not as interruptions but as opportunities to strengthen the professional ecosystem of which I am a part. 

Six Ways to Give Back  

This commitment to giving back manifests in various ways: 

1. Offering mentorship to emerging professionals 
2. Making thoughtful introductions between colleagues who might benefit from knowing each other 
3. Sharing insights and lessons learned from my own experiences 
4. Taking time to provide meaningful feedback and suggestions 
5. Being available for informational interviews or career guidance discussions 
6. Sharing recommendations, perspectives, and use cases for emerging technology (e.g., special librarians’ potentially complicated feelings about AI) 

The value of these interactions extends beyond mere networking—they create a ripple effect of positive professional relationships. Each time I invest in helping others, I am not just building my network; I am contributing to a culture of mutual support and growth. 

What Lies Outside Your Comfort Zone?  

The journey from reluctant networker to engaged professional community member has not changed who I am at my core. Instead, it has expanded my capabilities and shown me that personal growth often lies just outside my comfort zone.  

Here’s to more networking—with the mindset of learning and growing! In 2025, I encourage you to find a conference to attend or a local meet-up of professionals and to then take the opportunity to connect. It may not be comfortable—at least not at first—but I hope you find it rewarding.  

Professional Generosity 

I encourage you to explore opportunities to support others in their professional journeys, regardless of where you are in your own career path. Everyone has something valuable to contribute, whether just starting out or well established in his or her field.  

You might help polish someone’s resume, connect two people who could benefit from knowing each other, or simply provide a thoughtful perspective during a career discussion. These small acts of professional generosity not only help others but also contribute to building meaningful relationships within your industry.  

Remember that your experiences and insights, even if they seem modest to you, could be exactly what someone else needs to hear.