Why Is Networking Important | Benefits & Tips
I’m always on the lookout for articles about networking. Here are a few snippets:
Let’s be honest - to most people, the idea of introducing yourself to strangers isn’t all that appealing.?
So, unless you’re a social butterfly, you may find it hard to push yourself to try networking.
The thing is, though, networking is actually extremely beneficial for your career. You get to share ideas with professionals in your field, develop new skills, and even find new job opportunities.
Reasons Why Networking Is Important for Your Career?
1. Builds Your Reputation
One of the main reasons why networking is important is because it helps you build a reputation.?
Networking can help you establish yourself as a reliable, supportive, considerate, and knowledgeable industry professional. If you do it right, people may eventually perceive you as an industry expert.
Not to mention, building a solid reputation can help you attract more career opportunities, such as job offers and business partnerships.?
So, here are two often overlooked networking tips that will help you build a strong reputation:
2. Makes You Noticeable
Regularly attending networking events helps to make your face known to hundreds of people.? As such, increased visibility is another reason why networking is important.
Essentially, the more your network expands, the more people are aware of what you can offer and what you’re looking for. So, whether you’re a business owner or someone looking for a job, raising your profile can open doors to new business and career opportunities.
If you want people not only to notice you but also to remember you, a good piece of advice to follow is to learn other people’s names.?
Oftentimes, people don’t put much effort into memorising names - and especially so when they’re meeting dozens of new people (e.g. in speed networking events).
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Nonetheless, referring to people by their names will help your conversations seem more personal and sincere. Not to mention, calling people by their names makes them feel more important, resulting in a great first impression.
3. Strengthens Your Support Network
Without a doubt, one of the main reasons why networking is important is because it enables you to build a strong support network.
Sooner or later, most people face some kind of professional problems or general dissatisfaction with their job.
These problems can range from having to solve an issue at your work that you just can’t wrap your head around to job loss, burnout in the workplace, and everything in between.
The key to effectively tackling these rough patches in your career is to have a support network, and there’s no better way to build it than through networking.
4. Introduces to Industry Leaders
Let’s be honest - accessing experienced professionals, industry leaders, and other influential figures in your industry can be difficult, especially if you’re just starting your career.
Nonetheless, networking can help you build connections with important people. Typically, the professionals in your network will naturally introduce you to other experienced industry professionals.
However, if your current network is small and you haven’t built any powerful connections just yet, consider attending professional conferences where you can meet industry leaders.?
If you’re bold enough, try striking up a conversation with a keynote speaker that interests you after their speech. Chances are, they’ll be happy to answer your questions. If you’re lucky, a connection like this could also lead to a mentorship opportunity.
In other words, networking can help you meet industry experts that you otherwise wouldn’t have a chance to meet, which is another very important reason why networking is important.
Want to know more? Head on over to the full article here for more ideas and perspectives. Afterwards, why not drop me an email to share your thoughts at [email protected] ; or call me on 0467 749 378.
Thanks,
Robert