Part 1: Networking Fitness Test
Why Networking Fitness is Important
We all know the value of physical fitness. It helps us feel better, look better, and prevent illness or injury. But knowing something is good for usdoesn’t always mean we follow through with it.
The same is true for networking. Most people know that a strong network can keep your career on track and even shorten periods of unemployment, should you experience such a setback. But most of us don’t put in the effort to keep our network in shape until we need it, which is a risky gambit.
You can’t expect to compete – let alone excel – in a 5K race without proper training. The same goes for your network: you can’t tap into it only when you need help. You have to nurture and engage it regularly so it’s strong and ready when you really need it.
The same is true for networking. Most people know that a strong network can keep your career on track and even shorten periods of unemployment, should you experience such a setback. But most of us don’t put in the effort to keep our network in shape until we need it, which is a risky gambit.
You can’t expect to compete – let alone excel – in a 5K race without proper training. The same goes for your network: you can’t tap into it only when you need help. You have to nurture and engage it regularly so it’s strong and ready when you really need it.
First, let’s assess the strength of your professional network and determine where you need to improve. Take this 8-question Networking Fitness Test from Attolon Partners to find out.
1. Do you have a LinkedIn account?
No
Yes, but no profile or connections.
Yes, but only a few details or connections.
Yes, full profile and active connections.
LinkedIn is essential for professional networking, especially in fields like accounting and finance. While platforms like Facebook or Instagram are useful socially, nothing beats LinkedIn for building your career network.
2. How comprehensive is your network?
Just friends and family.
Some former coworkers.
Colleagues (peers, subordinates, and bosses) from most of my jobs.
A mix of coworkers,clients, vendors, service providers, and association members.
It’s not just about quantity, it’s about depth. A well-rounded network includes connections inside and outside your company, across all levels and roles.
3. How often do you meet with connections for coffee, lunch, or breakfast?
You have to eat, so why not use that time to reconnect? Informal meetups are a great way to stay in touch and exchange ideas.
4. Do you belong to a networking group?
No, what’s that?
I occasionally meet friends or colleagues.
I attend professional events or training sessions.
I’m active in a formal business networking group.
Industry events, associations, and networking groups introduce you to professionals with similar interests and goals. Regular participation keeps your network fresh and growing.
5. How much time do you spend networking each week?
Less than 1 hour.
Around 1 hour.
2–5 hours.
More than 5 hours.
Even when you're not job searching, staying connected matters. Just 30 minutes a day plus one event a week adds up to over 5 hours.
6. How many professional contacts have you reached out to this month?
None.
1–9.
10–19.
20 or more.
A quick message, a shared article, or a simple check-in counts. If you reach out to one person a workday, you’ll hit 20 easily.
7. How many people have you helped professionally this month?
Helping others builds goodwill and strengthens relationships. Make introductions, share job leads or articles, and offer advice. It all adds value.
8. How many LinkedIn Groups do you belong to?
None.
Just 1.
2–4.
5 or more.
LinkedIn Groups make it easier to reconnect with past colleagues and meetnew ones. Start with your alma mater and professional associations.
Scoring
A = 0 points
B = 1 point
C = 2 points
D = 3 points
