'Stepping up to consultant' is a series of resources to support doctors to successfully transition from trainee to medical specialist.
As you transition into the role of a consultant, building a strong professional network becomes an important part of your career development. LinkedIn offers a valuable opportunity to connect with experts, institutions and peers in a purposeful and strategic way. If you're new to LinkedIn, this guide will help you navigate the platform and build a network that aligns with your goals, interests and career aspirations.
Start with clear networking objectives
Before getting started, take time to clarify what you want to achieve through networking. Your objectives will shape who you connect with and how you approach each opportunity. Consider the following:
- Do you want to connect with peers and senior colleagues within my vocational craft group who I already know — for mentorship, collaboration, or career advice?
- Are you looking to reach out to others within my craft group who I don’t yet know, to build new professional relationships?
- Do you want to broaden your network beyond your specialty, or even beyond medicine, into areas that align with your wider interests or long-term career goals?
- Are you aiming to increase your influence by connecting with hospitals, health services, or professional associations?
- Are you looking for opportunities to share my knowledge, present research, or develop collaborative partnerships?
Clarifying your goals will help ensure that your networking is focused, relevant and worthwhile.
Identify people and groups that align with your goals
Strategic networking means identifying individuals, organisations and communities that support your objectives. On LinkedIn, you can:
- Search for consultants and senior professionals in your specialty and beyond who align with your networking aims. Connecting with experienced individuals may lead to:
- Access to advice, information and referrals that help close knowledge or network gaps.
- Opportunities for mentorship or sponsorship.
- Collaborative projects and new roles or pathways.
- A stronger and more diverse professional network.
- Follow leading hospitals, universities and research institutions locally and globally to stay informed and open up opportunities to engage with key people.
- Join relevant LinkedIn groups to engage in discussion, keep learning and connect with others who share your interests.
Optimise your profile and presence
Your LinkedIn profile is your digital introduction. Make it count by ensuring you have:
- A professional photo that reflects your role as a consultant.
- A succinct, relevant headline such as “Consultant | Health advocate | Research collaborator”.
- A clear ‘about’ section that describes your professional focus, qualifications, experience, key accomplishments and future aspirations.
Once your profile is up to date, stay visible by being active. Share updates, comment on others’ posts and mark milestones in your career.
Engage authentically
Networking isn’t just about connecting with people. It’s about building relationships through meaningful engagement. Try the following:
- When sending a connection request, include a brief, personal message that explains why you’re reaching out. Mention shared interests, a mutual connection or professional admiration.
- Contribute to discussions by commenting on posts, sharing reflections or starting conversations.
- Show your knowledge by posting insights from conferences, sharing research highlights or offering your take on recent developments in your field.
Self-reflection prompts
As you embark on your LinkedIn journey, use these questions to guide your efforts:
- What unique skills or experiences do I bring to my network, and how can I communicate them effectively?
- Who are the top individuals or organisations I should focus on connecting with in the coming months that support my networking objectives?
- What type of content or interactions will help me demonstrate expertise and build credibility?
- How can I maintain a professional LinkedIn presence without letting it become a time burden?
By approaching LinkedIn strategically, you can build a professional network that supports your goals and reflects your expertise as you step into your consultant role.
Next steps
Stepping into a consultant role is a major transition — don’t do it alone. AMA Victoria’s Professional Development and Careers team is here to support you.
If you're a member, start by booking a 15-minute Career Call to get clear on your direction. For deeper support, consider a 1-hour Career Coaching Consult or our 6-month Career Coaching Program, tailored to help you plan and navigate this next stage with confidence.
This is your chance to shape a consultant career that works for you. Start strong — with the right support.