The Importance of Networking

What is Networking?

To understand the conventional definition of networking you really need to understand how networking has evolved into the important asset that it is now. First things first, networking is NOT just about exchanging information with others and it’s definitely not begging for favors. Networking at its core, is all about building and maintaining relationships that are mutually beneficial for both parties. Networking can literally happen anywhere. On your way to get your regular latte, when you are at a sporting event, or even at a parents PTA meeting, there’s always an opportunity to build a relationship that can be helpful towards your career. Networking is an essential trait that when mastered can lead to endless possibilities.

Why Networking is Important for Success

Handshake made across both sides of table around a groupWe’ve all heard of the term, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” That saying is magnified in today’s work environment, where you will have more opportunities if your network is expanded over multiple places, as opposed to having zero connections. It is also very important to maintain these relationships and make sure you build on them after you meet someone. These relationships can be beneficial for either one of you down the road, that is why it is very important to keep these relationships alive and well.

Career Development and Networking

Networking keeps you honest and hungry to achieve more success. If you think you’ve already learned everything there is to know about a certain job career or topic, look around to others in the same spot and you may find that you have more to learn from them. The lifelong evolution of your career is molded by the relationships you build in or outside the office, and the experiences you go through. Always try to learn from your different networks to keep you on your toes and to help you evolve to become the best version of yourself.

The Importance of Networking in a Job Search

Diagram depicting Networking Job ProfileWhat better way is there to get a job than through a mutual connection? If you build on your relationships, you can market yourself to many different outlets and if the time for a new opportunity ever comes, they’ll be calling for you. To look at this through another lens, picture yourself applying for a job and asking one of your connections to write you a referral. This connection and referral will increase your chances of landing the job. Your professional network can also assist you by creating the bridge between you and an industry you are trying to break into. Nurturing these relationships can only lead to many positive outcomes. Take the time to establish new connections and be prepared to reap the benefits.

The Overall Importance of Networking

It’s never too early or too late to build your network. There are so many benefits of building and maintaining these connections and relationships, so why wouldn’t you give it a try? Your biggest mistake would be not trying, so get out there and build those connections!

Contact us if you would like to learn more about networking and how you can build your network!


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