professional network

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "professional network" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a group of people who are either employers and/or employees that are connected through a shared industry or profession. For example, "I found a job through my professional network of friends and colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She has also served on advisory councils for numerous EY professional networks, including Unity (EY's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and ally professionals network), the Professional Women's Network; the Black Professional Network; the Pan Asian Professional Network; and the Latino Professional Network.

Huffington Post

Start building your professional network now.

The New York Times

LinkedIn built a professional network.

The New York Times

"An amazing professional network", is how he describes it.

The Guardian

Involvement in diversity programs can also widen your professional network.

The New York Times

The Bank has also signed up to OUTstanding, the professional network for LGBT executives.

The Guardian - Business

"When you're talking about a professional network, quality is so important".

The New York Times - Tech

Quinn has nevertheless benefitted from the camp's professional network, sometimes known as the Stagedoor Mafia.

The New Yorker

He had also added a link to a Research Gate profile, the professional network for scientists.

The Guardian - Money

Engage with your professional network to land a mate for life, like wolves.

The New Yorker

As a professional network, the Guardian Media Network exists to serve you.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Actively engage with your "professional network" by sharing relevant content, offering assistance, and participating in discussions to strengthen relationships and increase visibility.

Common error

Don't treat your "professional network" as a passive resource. Regularly interact with your contacts, offer support, and stay top-of-mind to maximize its benefits.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "professional network" functions as a noun phrase, typically referring to a group of individuals connected through their professional roles or industries. Ludwig shows that the phrase is widely used across various contexts, often highlighting the importance of building and maintaining these connections for career advancement and business opportunities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "professional network" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase that refers to a group of individuals connected through their professional roles or industries. Ludwig highlights its prevalence across diverse contexts, including news, science, and business, emphasizing the importance of these connections for career growth and opportunity. According to Ludwig, the phrase is best used to describe or emphasize the value of career-related relationships and is generally appropriate for professional communication. Common errors involve neglecting the active nurturing of the network. By understanding the function, purpose, and register of "professional network", writers can effectively use it to convey relevant and impactful messages in various professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

business connections

Focuses on the commercial aspect of the network.

career contacts

Emphasizes the professional growth and advancement aspect.

industry colleagues

Highlights relationships with peers within a specific field.

work-related relationships

Broadly refers to connections formed through work.

professional circle

Implies a more intimate and curated group of contacts.

occupational contacts

Similar to career contacts, but with a broader scope.

job-related network

Highlights connections specifically for employment opportunities.

employment contacts

Focuses on connections relevant to finding or maintaining employment.

career community

Implies a more collaborative and supportive environment.

expert connections

Highlights connections with individuals that have special skills and know-how in a particular area.

FAQs

How can I effectively expand my "professional network"?

Attend industry events, engage in online communities, and proactively reach out to people whose work you admire. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect and nurture relationships. Remember to offer value and be genuinely interested in others' experiences.

What's the difference between a "professional network" and a personal network?

A "professional network" primarily consists of contacts related to your career or industry, while a personal network includes friends, family, and other personal relationships. Although there can be overlap, the primary focus differs.

What are the benefits of having a strong "professional network"?

A strong "professional network" can provide access to job opportunities, mentorship, industry insights, and potential collaborations. It can also enhance your reputation and open doors to new career paths.

How can I maintain a thriving "professional network" over time?

Regularly engage with your contacts by sharing relevant content, offering support, and staying in touch. A simple message of congratulations on a new job or accomplishment goes a long way. Keep the relationship going! Consider using tools such as Linkedin.