Building your matrix network – 5 practical tips 

Last week we were training people how to engage with their new matrix network following acquisition.

Why Building Your Matrix Network Matters

In a matrix organization, suddenly your success depends not just on your direct team, but on a web of peers, stakeholders, and solid and dotted-line leaders across departments and regions.

You need to build a strong matrix network to collaborate, influence, and get things done. Whether your company provides sophisticated HR systems or relies on informal sponsors, supporting people to build their matrix network is critical for fast and effective onboarding.

5 Practical Tips for Building Your Matrix Network

Map Your Key Stakeholders Early

Start by identifying who influences your success—project leads, functional heads, and key decision-makers. Create a quick stakeholder map to visualize where collaboration and influence matter most. Prioritize a few high-impact relationships first; you can always expand later. As you speak to people ask them to help you complete your map.

Schedule Regular “Coffee Chats” (Virtual or In-Person)

Don’t wait for formal meetings to connect. Block 20-minute “coffee chats” with peers, mentors, or cross-functional partners. Use these sessions to learn their goals, challenges, and preferred ways of working. Authentic curiosity builds trust faster than status updates ever could.

Be Visible and Add Value

Visibility is currency in a matrix. Volunteer for cross-functional initiatives or offer expertise in shared forums. When you contribute meaningfully, you become a go-to person—an essential part of your network’s ecosystem.

Communicate Across, Not Just Up

Managers often focus on senior leaders, but peers and project collaborators can hold just as much influence. Keep communication flowing horizontally. Regularly share progress updates, insights, or resources—showing reliability strengthens every connection.

As one of our clients says of their matrix “why talk to someone with a job title when you can talk to someone with a solution”

Invest in Relationships, Don’t Just Use Them

Networks thrive on reciprocity. Check in when you don’t need something. A simple “How’s that project going?” message or quick congratulations can maintain rapport long-term. Where possible help someone else first and build a positive balance of goodwill.

In any organization, especially a matrix, building your matrix network is how you get things done. By being intentional, visible, and generous, your network will do the heavy lifting for your success. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your matrix network grow.

Need some help getting your people get up to speed faster in a complex organization, why not get in touch