Hey, Mama!
It’s Saturday, and if you’re anything like me, this day feels like a mix of chaos and calm. Onone hand, it’s a great opportunity to recharge and enjoy the kids. On the other hand, it’s a chance to sneak in some career planning before the new week rolls in—between snackrequests and laundry, of course.
As a Nigerian mom of two sets of twins (yes, double the blessing and double the hustle!), I’ve learned that motherhood and career don’t have to clash. In fact, they can complement each other beautifully when you tap into the right strategies.
Let’s talk about one big key to growth—networking. I know, I know, the word “networking” sounds like something that involves wearing a stiff suit and handing out business cards at a boring event. But it doesn’t have to be that way, I promise. Here are some fun, actionable tips that fit perfectly into a busy mom’s life, whether you’re just launching your career or trying to level up.
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Build Your Network Through Your Everyday Mom Life
Ever noticed how our kids make friends so easily? They’re pros at walking up to another child and saying, “Hey, want to play?” We can do the same—just with a little more finesse!
Whether you’re at a school event, a playdate, or even a mom’s group, there’s always an opportunity to connect with other moms who might have valuable career insights.
Start a conversation, ask about their line of work, and offer to share experiences. You never know who might have a lead on a job or partnership opportunity.
Tip: If you’re in the diaspora like me, connecting with other Nigerian moms abroad can be especially powerful. We share common experiences and challenges, which can be a great foundation for building relationships that support both personal and professional growth.
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Leverage Social Media – It’s Not Just for Baby Pictures
Yes, we love posting adorable snapshots of our little ones, but have you thought about using your social media for professional networking? LinkedIn, Instagram, and even Facebook groups can be goldmines for finding like-minded professionals. I personally love LinkedIn for making meaningful connections with other working moms and professionals in my field. It’s less about cold messaging and more about engaging with content that speaks to your interests.
Start by following professionals or groups that align with your career goals. Comment on their posts, share helpful insights, and eventually slide into their DMs (in a professional way, of course!). Over time, you’ll naturally grow your network without feeling like you’re forcing it.
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Host Your Own Networking Event—Yes, Really!
Okay, before you panic, I’m not suggesting you rent out a venue and host a big career conference. I mean something as simple as a virtual coffee chat. Invite a few mom friends or acquaintances who share your professional interests and have a casual conversation about career growth, business ideas, or even side hustles.
This is a great way to exchange tips, share resources, and find new collaborators—all from the comfort of your home, while the kids are napping (or attempting to nap).
Tip: If you’re feeling ambitious, turn this into a regular thing. A monthly or quarterly virtual meet-up could become a cornerstone of your personal support network!
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Don’t Underestimate the Power of “Soft” Networking
Lastly, remember that networking isn’t just about direct business connections. It’s about forming relationships with people who *might* know someone who might know someone else. Sometimes, the best career opportunities come from the least expected places—a casual chat at church, a conversation in the grocery store, or even a friendly exchange at the kids’ soccer game.When you approach networking with a mindset of curiosity and openness, rather than pressure, it becomes less of a task and more of an opportunity to learn, grow, and share.
So, as you juggle motherhood and career, remember that building your network doesn’t have to be daunting or time-consuming. Start with small, intentional steps. Use the connections around you, both online and offline. And most importantly, embrace the process with a light heart and an open mind—after all, you never know where the next opportunity will come from.
Now, I’ve got to run—my twins are suspiciously quiet, which usually means trouble!
Wishing you a restful (and productive) Saturday,
Teni ✨