What are the most important networking strategies for a Culinary Management professional?

First off, getting out there and attending industry events like food expos or seminars is a great way to meet people. Social media is huge too, especially platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram where you can share your work and connect with others in the field. Building relationships with suppliers and other chefs can open up lots of opportunities. It’s not just about meeting new people, but keeping in touch with those you already know. And don't forget about mentorship – either finding a mentor or being one. You can learn a lot and it’s a great way to build a strong network. Oh, and always be genuine, because people can tell if you're just trying to use them. Networking’s all about making real connections.

Attend events and workshops has been a key element for my career positioning, but to get the most, you have to be prepared: 1. Do your homework. Research who is who in the industry. 2. Events are like a buffet. Select the people you want to reach. You can't approach all of them. 3. Prepare the way to approach the key contacts. Have a brief speech ready, since you have limited time to leave an impression. 4. Be natural and specific. Do not overwhelm them with excessive compliments. 5. Give them a tiny present that represent them but enough valuable to be kept. (I gave a Gusteau to Charlie Trotter) 6. Ask them something directly: "I want to work/volunteer with you". 7. Follow up. An email, a note, another event, approach his/her team.

Your personal brand extends beyond any one role you have in your industry, sector or career. Building on your network, thought leadership and interests demonstrates your passions and engagement in what you do. Sharing news, lifting others up and getting curious for a growth mindset. But it's best to do this with authenticity rather than a path of "I must post about myself every day"...that's tiresome and makes others switch off. Be purposeful without the narcissism and others will look to you as you offer service and support. Paying it forward for whatever that comes to can simply be an enjoyable part of interacting.

This is one of the best ways to gain visibility: 1. Approach the person you want to learn from. Since I started in the culinary field at 33, I have no time to waste so while I was in my first steps, I identified who's who locally, regionally, nationwide and globally and I set them as objectives: 1. To approach them. 2. Enter in their radar. 3. Ask them directly to collaborate/volunteer. 4. Get in touch with their teams and cultivate a peer relationship. 5. Collaborate with them in projects and events. 6. Let your work make the noise. 7. Be consistent,. 8. Watch and learn from the best people. 9. Repeat the process with higher levels. It will take more time or efforts but always will work.

Yes volunteer, collaborate, create, produce!! That’s the beauty of it all, I want ideas, I want talented people around me so I can learn and I can teach, without that you’re stagnant.

1. Let your work make noise. Become a model in every role you perform, even in the modest: Disciplined, Clean, Organized, Accurate, Collaborative, Firm in your personality. 2. Watch and learn from the best people you can approach in your area or your interests. 3. Enjoy the process. 4. Never stop learning.