How can you use networking to improve your decision-making skills?

Like all crucial business processes, networking works best when carried out thoughtfully. Therefore, successful networking requires a structured, strategic plan. By developing a plan you are much more likely to reach your business or networking goal. This is because you will have focused your efforts on achieving the specific business results you want, or need, to achieve. Your purpose may change based on the type of network you are tapping into. Be aware that the purpose is not the same as the goal. Your goal is normally an ‘amount’ or a specific level of return on your networking investment. Setting goals without really understanding what you hope to achieve can lead to wasted effort or the wrong approach.

Networking can enhance your decision-making skills by exposing you to diverse perspectives and experiences. Engaging with professionals from various backgrounds and industries provides insights into different approaches to problem-solving and decision-making. You can learn from the successes and mistakes of others, gaining valuable knowledge that can inform your decisions. Discussing your challenges with your network can offer new viewpoints and feedback, helping you consider factors you might not have thought of. This broadened understanding and exposure to different strategies can significantly refine your decision-making process.

My network has been an excellent source of new perspective and ideas that help me in role. Exchanging information on challenges, experiences and goals is a key benefit of networking because is has allow me gain new insights that I may not have otherwise thought of.

While most networks are formed around a shared experience, such as the company we work for or the city we live in, it is important to be cognizant of the networks we are part of and the diversity that is present within them. Given that our networks influence the way we think and the opportunities we give and receive, lack of diversity within these networks can create echo chambers of perspectives. Being cognizant of the networks that we are part of and being intentional about the diversity of those networks, might take a bit of discomfort, as we reflect on ourselves and learn about others. But the benefit of expanding our views, experiences and connections is well worth the effort, both for us as individuals and for our companies.

If you are struggling with a decision, challenge or new direction, calling up a trusted former colleague, mentor, teacher or friend to organize a coffee can be beneficial to both of you, as they will in turn think of you when next they have a challenge. Offering helpful ideas in return is an excellent way to build your reputation as an innovative thinker.

Whether you love meeting new people or the thought of a room full of strangers makes you shudder, networking is an essential element of career success. Finding new and exciting ways to expand your professional network can help you create connections with people who can help you along your professional journey. Growing your professional network is not an overnight process. With slow and steady efforts, you’ll soon have a job search contact list that is sure to help you get your foot into the door of a company that you’d like to work for!

I find attending networking events specifically for decision makers. This provides opportunities to exchange ideas, understand future best practice and hopefully connect with peoples that can bring you value.

Sometimes it can be really difficult to receive feedback. But being aware of the reasons behind your own reaction to feedback can help you better manage your response, and eventually help you get much more out of the discussion. People often feel uncomfortable giving feedback, because nobody wants to hurt somebody else's feelings. By demonstrating that you are open to hear others’ views and willing to receive feedback, you will be doing a great service to whoever you work with.

Following up on the contacts you've made is an essential part of effective networking. Get it right, and you'll be in a great position to build lasting business relationships and enhance your credibility. Get it wrong, and you could miss opportunities to boost your career or to develop new clients. A strong professional network can help you to learn new skills, to develop best practice in your area, to learn more about your industry, and to open up new job opportunities. And the more connections you make, the more valuable you become to others as an aid to building their networks.