to-build-a-professional-network
/tə bɪld ə prəˈfeʃ.ən.əl ˈnet.wɜːk/ IELTSAcademic
phrase
To make and develop useful work contacts who can help your career, share opportunities, or offer advice. It often means meeting people, staying in touch, and being known in your field.
- She built a professional network at industry events.
- He used LinkedIn to build a professional network.
- Good networking can help you find better jobs.
Adinary Nuance
This phrase is broader than just "meeting people." It includes keeping contact over time, not only making a first connection. It is more purposeful than "making friends," and more career-focused than "socialising."
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- xây dựng mạng lưới nghề nghiệp
- Spanish
- crear una red profesional
- Chinese
- 建立职业人脉
- Japanese
- 職業上の人脈を作る
- Korean
- 전문 네트워크를 구축하다
Etymology
This is a modern business phrase built from common English words. It became popular in workplace and career language in the late 20th century, especially with networking culture.
Common phrases
professional networkbuild a networkexpand your networknetworking events
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is "to build a professional network" formal or informal?
- It is neutral and common in business and academic settings.
- What is the difference between "network" and "build a professional network"?
- "Network" is the general idea. The full phrase means to develop useful work contacts.
- Can I use this phrase in a job interview?
- Yes. It sounds natural when you talk about career growth or contacts.
- Is this only for office jobs?
- No. Any field can have a professional network.