By Laurie Robinson Haden |Summer 2025
In the high-stakes world of law and business, time is your most precious asset. But what if just 10 minutes a day could be the difference between being known and being overlooked? Strategic networking isn’t about grand gestures or endless cups of coffee. It’s about consistent, intentional micro-steps that quietly compound over time—building influence, strengthening relationships, and keeping you top of mind when opportunity knocks.
Here are 10 powerful ten-minute moves to keep your professional network active, warm, and working for you:
- Say Hello—In Person
Passing a colleague in the hallway? Say more than “hi.” Ask about a project or share a quick update. In-office visibility still matters—and it builds relational capital.
- Visit a Colleague’s Office
Drop by and check in with a team member, cross-functional partner, or someone you’ve been meaning to catch up with. Physical presence fosters trust. No agenda necessary.
- Schedule a 15-Minute Zoom Coffee
Use five minutes to schedule it, even weeks in advance. A recurring monthly chat with someone inside or outside your org keeps you in their orbit and strengthens ties.
- Comment on a LinkedIn Post
Don’t just scroll. Engage. Thoughtful, authentic comments on someone’s post are digital handshakes—and a way to show up in their feed and their mind.
- Send 5 Texts a Week
Text a peer, mentor, or former colleague to check in, congratulate them on a win, or share an article. It’s quick, informal, and highly effective.
- Forward One Article with Context
Spotted an article that aligns with a colleague’s interest or business focus? Share it with a quick note: “Thought of you when I saw this… let me know if you have any questions, I’m happy to discuss further.”
- Share Your Win (Modestly)
Post a brief update about a professional accomplishment or lesson learned. It’s not bragging—it’s branding. Let others know what you’re working on and are proud of.
- Follow Up After Meetings
Take five minutes to send a “great connecting with you” message or a LinkedIn request after a client call, panel, or boardroom session. Cement the connection while it’s warm.
- Recognize Someone Publicly
Give kudos to a colleague or team member on social media or in a group email. It builds goodwill and reminds people of your leadership style.
- Check In with a Sponsor or Advocate
Just a brief “thinking of you” or “appreciate your continued support” message can go a long way in maintaining strong sponsor relationships.
In conclusion, each of these micro-steps is small, but together they create momentum. Strategic networking is not episodic—it’s cumulative. You don’t need a significant time investment to stay visible and relevant in the corporate ecosystem. You need consistency.
So tomorrow morning, before the meetings begin, try one of these ten-minute moves. Because in today’s environment, relationships are currency. And visibility? That’s compound interest.
Stay connected, stay seen.
© Corporate Counsel Women of Color. All Rights Reserved