How To Expand Senior Networks Cross-Industry

How to Expand Senior Networks Cross-Industry

Following my recent article about alternative career paths for senior executives during this cautious hiring market (Alternative Paths for Senior Executives: Thriving While the Market Waits), I received a thoughtful question:

"Most of those alternative career paths require a strong cross-industry network to get recognized and approached for opportunities. Do you have recommendations for executives who want to contribute their skills outside their usual industry connections?"

This is an important point - it can feel like a circular problem where you need networks to build networks.

Here are some ideas

Start with Industry-Adjacent Moves

Look for opportunities in sectors that intersect with your industry – if you're from automotive, explore logistics, manufacturing technology, or sustainability. Also consider your client industries, supplier industries, and sectors with similar market mechanisms. Your expertise gives you credibility from day one.

Use Professional Services & Networks

Many consulting firms and professional services host events designed to bring together executives from different sectors. And register your profile as a senior expert with interim networks, freelancer networks, or consulting platforms. They'll actively match you to projects that fit your skills.

Leverage Professional Platforms Strategically

Join executive groups focused on specific functions (CFO networks, transformation leaders, etc.) rather than just industry-specific ones. Participate actively in discussions on cross-industry topics like digital transformation, crisis management, or sustainability. Approach executive associations, director institutes, service clubs, and chambers of commerce.

Build Credibility Through Volunteering

Offer to speak at business schools, industry conferences, or professional associations. Volunteer for nonprofit boards where you'll meet executives from diverse sectors while contributing to causes.

Educational Pathway

Teaching or guest lecturing creates instant credibility and exposes you to participants from multiple industries. Many business schools maintain speaker rosters – apply for those. Or register with agencies that book corporate speaking engagements, or with industry think tanks.

"Reverse Networking"

And instead of trying to get introduced to opportunities, create content that makes opportunities come to you. Regular posting about lessons learned, frameworks you've developed, or industry observations can attract interest from unexpected quarters. Contributing to industry publications or podcasts helps establish thought leadership.

Take Initiative & Focus Your Efforts

In many cases you'll need to actively reach out rather than wait to be discovered – but there's nothing wrong with proactively letting people know you're available and what value you can offer. Start with one or two focused efforts rather than trying to network everywhere.

Remember: There's nothing wrong with proactively letting people know you're available and what value you can offer.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

• Marion Heil is the founder and managing director of Board+CEO Advisors. She is based in Vienna.