Why Networking Is So Important
It can be difficult to focus on networking after a long workweek — Why attend an event with a bunch of strangers when you can crash on the couch and watch a movie? But taking the time to build your professional network is more than just meeting new people that may or may not be beneficial to your success. In fact, networking is one of the cornerstones of modern career success.
Surveys show 85% of jobs are filled via networking. That means it should be your primary source for job-hunting, as many openings aren’t even posted on job sites, but filled internally or through referrals. This is where your network comes in handy. If you know someone who knows someone, you could be part of that group of referrals, meaning you’ll have access to the job application before it even reaches the online masses (if it ever does).
Even if you’re not considering taking a new job, networking is still vital to your career trajectory. Any relationship you develop in the professional world holds the potential for career-boosting opportunities. At the very least, you’re connecting with other professionals from whom you can learn and develop new skills. At the most, you’re meeting people who can help find you opportunities and openings for career enhancement. If you’ve always wanted to give a talk or attend a certain conference, for example, knowing the right people can help you get there.
Career Companion is a great resource for keeping track of your network, and finding new connections. You can use Career Companion’s FREE modules to help you find more events to attend, so you can network in person rather than solely relying on social media sites such as LinkedIn. You can also keep track of meetings with mentors, who are great resources for connecting to other professionals and getting insight into advancing your career.
I know that the idea of networking can be draining. The thought of attending events, reaching out to strangers, and making the time to follow up with every new connection is time-consuming and can even be awkward. But taking the time to establish and nurture your network will help you be as successful as possible in your career. It’s not just about landing a job or a promotion — Your network stays with you throughout your entire career, and can help you achieve different results depending on your current desires and needs.
Find your networking style — If you’re more introverted, perhaps you prefer one-on-one interactions or intimate gatherings, while an extrovert might be willing to speak to fifty people over the course of one night. No matter your style and personality, you can make networking work for you, and cultivate a strong and beneficial network that will see you through your entire career.
And don’t forget to follow up every time you meet someone new, whether via social media, email, or even a handwritten letter. Fostering your networking relationships is crucial, and it’s a step many people tend not to prioritize. In addition to following up with new connections, make sure you’re keeping in touch with the old ones, so your network stays strong, connected, and useful. Try grabbing coffee with a few connections you haven’t seen in a while, or simply shoot them a casual message.
Are you ready to build your network?
