4 Reasons Why Networking Is Still The Best Thing You Can Do For Career Success
My first shot at networking got me so nervous, I stuttered several times but it’s all worth it.
I took my first step of networking at a conference in my third year on campus! I’m an introverted professional, I dread small talk and that’s my only weapon if I’m not going to come across as weird! Weird or not weird I connected with professionals who are helpful to my career till date!
When you hear the term “networking”, what comes to your mind? Oftentimes, networking takes a backseat when things are going well. It’s easy to think, “I’ll network when I need a new job.” But the truth is, that building strong professional relationships takes time. People are more likely to help someone they know, like, and trust. Networking isn’t about awkward sales pitches. It’s simply connecting with people as humans. From the grocery store to online forums, opportunities to network are everywhere.
So, why bother networking now? Because it's not just about finding your next gig. It's about creating opportunities, learning from others, and building a support system. Think of it as making deposits in a bank – the more you invest, the bigger your returns.
The following are the reasons you need networking for your career success.
1. You Get Access to Knowledge Top-Up
I've learned that networking isn't just about collecting contacts - it's about tapping into people's wisdom and experience. My diverse network has been a game-changer, offering fresh perspectives, guidance, and support. It's a two-way street: we learn from and help each other.
By building genuine relationships, I've become a better professional, and it's propelled my career forward in ways I never thought possible. There are many things you don’t know but networking with professionals with people of the same niche could bring you up to speed.
2. Networking Gets New Doors Open
As someone who has gotten some freelance writing jobs from referrals from networks, I made bold to say networking opens doors to new opportunities, allowing you to expand your career with minimal effort.
By building relationships, you'll gain access to the hidden job market, where opportunities exist before they're publicly advertised. This informal market can lead to dream roles, even if you're not actively job searching. Imagine a contact tipping you off about a soon-to-be-available position before the HR department starts recruiting. With their referral, you could be at the front of the hiring line, even before the job is officially posted.
Networking makes exciting opportunities fall into your lap, and as a career-minded professional, it's worth exploring, no matter how happy you are in your current role.
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3. To Keep You Visible and Remembered
It is important to be in people’s faces, networking makes that possible and memorable. Networking is a powerful tool for building visibility and recognition in your industry. By regularly connecting with key players and thought leaders, you'll establish a strong presence and increase your professional visibility.
Sharing your expertise and insights through networking opportunities helps you stand out as a trusted authority, catching the attention of influencers and recruiters. As your reputation grows, so does your visibility, opening doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and career advancements. Invest in strategic networking to amplify your professional brand, build recognition, and take your career to the next level.
4. Gets Your Confidence High
Being an introverted professional is not easy at all. I know how difficult it is to gather the confidence for small talks that spark networking, but the way to get better is by practicing. Networking boosts your confidence by challenging you to step outside your comfort zone and engage with new people.
As you continue to connect and build relationships, you'll develop invaluable social skills and self-assurance that translate to all areas of life. The more you network, the more you'll grow and learn how to forge meaningful connections.
Over time, this cumulative confidence can help you shine in professional settings, such as interviews, and make a lasting impression on like-minded individuals. By investing in networking, you'll cultivate a strong sense of self-assurance that opens doors to new opportunities and empowers you to excel in your career.
In conclusion, networking is an invaluable investment in your career. It's a powerful tool for gaining knowledge, uncovering opportunities, boosting visibility, and building confidence. By cultivating strong professional relationships, you'll create a solid foundation for long-term success.
Additional Readings:
Students: 4 Steps To Dealing With Academic and Professional Failure
How To Future-Proof Your Career With Upskilling and Microcredentialing
Optimize Your Resume With ChatGPT Using These Simple Prompts
Meet The Writer!
I'm Favour, a content writer, copywriter, and graphics designer with a passion for making brands shine. I help businesses and individuals create content and designs that convert. My goal? Make your brand awesome, one word/image at a time.
When I'm not working, you can find me playing (bad) football, eating (too much), or watching football highlights (guilty pleasure!). Do you want to say something to me or do you want me to be of help? Connect with me via https://linktr.ee/favouraderibigbe.
