Here's how you can network and build connections as a network administrator in temporary and contract work.

Whether online or offline, having a portfolio that highlights your projects and accomplishments can impress potential employers or clients.

Do the work it takes to build your skills. There is no substitute for that. "Show your work" is how you earn long-lasting respect.

If there is one thing I would advise anyone entering the community for the first time, it would be to undeniably upskill yourself. Once, or as, you do that, build and sustain relationships with peers, as well as people who are less experienced and more experienced than you are. In the future, that will be your capital.

Engaging with peers is pivotal in networking within temporary positions as a network administrator. Initiate discussions about current trends in network technology or exchange insights on resolving common challenges. This not only demonstrates your expertise but also underscores your collaborative spirit and openness to learning from others. Participating in professional groups or forums frequented by network administrators expands your network beyond current projects, enhancing your visibility and keeping you informed about potential future opportunities.

Offering assistance to colleagues facing network issues is a powerful way to leave a lasting impression. By proactively stepping in to help solve problems, you demonstrate teamwork, expertise, and approachability. This not only resolves immediate challenges but also positions you as a valuable team member others can rely on. Such acts of support often lead to recommendations and expand your professional network, increasing the likelihood of being considered for future job opportunities that align with your skills and capabilities.

It is useful to make yourself valuable to the group by taking advantage of your expertise to build social capital that will come back in the future to your benefit.

Staying connected with professionals you've met after a contract ends is crucial for maintaining relationships and staying top-of-mind for future opportunities. Utilize professional networking platforms to stay in touch, sharing updates on your projects and industry insights. Occasional meetups or virtual gatherings can also help nurture these connections and keep them warm. Active engagement ensures you're remembered when new projects or job openings arise, leveraging these relationships as potential pathways to your next career opportunity.

This almost sounds like a soft marketing strategy for Linkedin for itself :-). But sure, it does make sense to stay in touch privately and publicly. In this business, it is very easy to be forgotten and taken out of circulation if you are not consistently communicating yourself to the group.

Since things happen so quickly nowadays, the easiest ways to stay informed is to join a NOG (Network Operators Group) mailing list, and attend NOG conferences in your region.

As a network administrator, continuous learning is essential and can be leveraged to strengthen your professional network. Share your newfound knowledge—whether from certifications or innovative solutions—with your network. This not only sparks meaningful discussions but also establishes you as a knowledgeable authority in your field. This reputation can attract others seeking advice or collaboration, fostering deeper connections and potential opportunities for professional growth. Embracing continuous learning not only enhances your skills but also enriches your network interactions, paving the way for mutual learning and advancement in the field of network administration.

Another useful way Linkedin is marketing itself :-). But this is very useful, yes. If you have knowledge, share it. It gets you eyeballs, and many of those can translate into opportunities you never thought were possible.

Finally, contributing to online communities is a powerful way to broaden your professional network beyond local boundaries. Writing informative blog posts, offering solutions on forums, or creating tutorials that highlight your expertise can garner attention from industry peers globally. This online presence not only establishes you as a thought leader but also creates opportunities for remote contract work or collaborations that transcend geographical constraints. By actively engaging and sharing valuable insights online, you can significantly expand your network and access new avenues for career advancement in network administration.