Networking is the exchange of ideas and information between individuals connected by a common career, industry, or interest. Professional networking refers to building and maintaining relationships with other professionals in our industry or related fields. It comes in many forms – participation in industry events, online communities, informal interactions, project collaborations, etc.
Why is Networking Important?
Networking can offer many benefits, with finding new job opportunities and career growth being just a few. For instance, 31% of job seekers discover openings through professional connections, especially via recommendations. Simply through networking, doors to opportunities you might not have accessed otherwise can open. Additionally, research by the Harvard Business Review shows that people with stronger networks tend to earn higher pay and receive more promotions. That makes sense, right? The more connected you are, the more likely you are to learn about new opportunities, and someone in a higher position may recommend you for a specific role.
How to Network Like a Pro?
What Can I Offer?
Before you embark on any networking event, think about what skills, knowledge, or resources you can share with others. Perhaps you can offer information on industry trends or connect people with important contacts in your network. If you are not sure what you can offer, ask yourself: What is my expertise? How can I help others solve the problem? How can I help others improve their work? Preparation before the event will help you feel more confident and comfortable when networking.
Focus on a Few Key Contacts
Arriving at a conference of 500+ people where you know almost no one can be intimidating. Instead of focusing on talking to a large number of people, focus on a few key contacts with whom you want to develop deeper connections. Studies have shown that most people prefer intimate conversations, even if they are seeing you for the first time. Developing honest and engaging conversations can help you build strong relationships that are more long-lasting and rewarding than those you’d get through small talk.
Networking is a Long-Term Process
Networking is not just a means for personal gain, like job hunting. The goal of networking can be the desire to learn more about a specific field, participation in knowledge exchange, and the like. By doing so, you will focus on building lasting relationships. The connections you make today can be useful for years to come – whether for advice, an opportunity, or a referral. Therefore, it is necessary to be patient and look at networking as a long-term process.
Develop Your Relationships Further
We have already emphasized that networking is a long-term process. After you’ve made a few new contacts think about who you want to develop your relationship with further. It is important, therefore, to consider who you had the most common interests with or who had the greatest influence on you. More often, those people with whom you share common interests are the ones with whom you will build a better and longer-lasting professional relationship.
Keep Your Network Active
Once you’ve built your network, you need to keep it active. If you see a job ad, article, or opportunity that might be of interest to someone in your network – share it. By doing so, the gesture shows that you are ready to help, but it will also encourage others to reciprocate in kind. Maintaining active and mutual relationships in the network allows you to always have support and access to new opportunities.
Opportunities to Connect with People Exist Everywhere
While events like conferences are popular for networking, opportunities to connect with people exist everywhere. Whether you’re in the hallway, waiting room, or having coffee – start a conversation with someone in an everyday situation. People like to talk about themselves, and through open conversations, you can often discover common interests or opportunities for collaboration that would not appear in a formal setting.
Every day is an opportunity to make new acquaintances and create relationships that can open the door not only to professional but also personal growth. Go step by step, with openness, curiosity, and willingness to give as much as you receive. Networking doesn’t have to be a challenge, but an opportunity to become part of a community that grows and prospers together with you. So what are you waiting for?
