Building connections and relationships with other professionals is a huge part of business and career growth. While networking is seen by many as difficult or awkward, it’s an essential part of work regardless of the industry you’re in. And thankfully, it’s also a skill that anyone can learn. Here’s why learning how to network well could benefit your career.
What is professional networking?
Networking involves interacting with other professionals, exchanging ideas, and building connections. It is a mutually beneficial interaction between people who have a common industry or interest, providing the groundwork for professional relationships that can foster knowledge and opportunities. Networking is a key part of career development.
Who should you network with?
There are no hard and fast rules on who you should keep in your network, but having a mix of people from within your industry, including those who have been in it for a long time and new entrants, is helpful. It can also be useful to have professional contacts in adjacent industries. Some of our recommendations for network connections include:
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- Current and former colleagues
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- People you studied with and those who taught you while you studied
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- Industry professionals and people part of relevant industry associations
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- People from adjacent industries
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- Recruiters specialising in your field
You can enjoy the advantages of a network with people by joining associations, connecting with professionals online, meeting recruiters, keeping in touch with former colleagues, and even attending specific networking events.
What are the benefits of networking?
Networking is an incredibly powerful tool that helps to build careers, grow businesses, and find new opportunities. Expanding one’s network of connections can have huge implications for workers and provide many pathways for professional development. Here are some of the primary benefits of networking in business.
Learning and exchanging ideas
Engaging with and putting into practice new ideas can help you grow professionally and provide personal fulfilment. One of the best ways to encounter and foster new ideas is through industry networks. Meeting other professionals with decades of experience and newcomers to an industry gives you an exciting chance to learn and engage your critical and creative thinking skills.
Access to opportunities
One of the most-repeated business quotes is: “It’s not what you know; it’s who you know.” It’s still essential to have knowledge and experience, but connections can give you an inside track on many business opportunities, including jobs or partnerships. In addition, the more you put yourself out there, the more likely others are to recognise your expertise and potentially recommend you for good opportunities in the future.
Building confidence and communication
The more you speak to others, the more you develop your communication abilities and confidence to pursue connections. This is especially important for young professionals, as it can give them an advantage early on in their careers to carry into every aspect of business and work. Not only do professional networks help you become more confident in seeking connections, but they also help you present yourself and your abilities with more assurance.
Receiving support and mentorship
Industry networking shouldn’t just be a one-and-done situation. At its most effective, networking leads to long-term relationships with professionals you can lean on for advice and feedback. Suppose you have connections with more experienced professionals. In that case, you can also turn to them for mentorship and guidance on navigating challenges, progressing into new roles and taking on added responsibilities. Having people you can turn to for trusted advice is incredibly valuable.
Growing a personal brand
Some would describe networking as ‘selling yourself’, but the reality is that it’s a great forum to show your skills, interests and value as a professional. This is probably one of the lesser-recognised benefits of business networking, but the more people know who you are, the more you will become known for your qualities and abilities. Being seen as collaborative, intelligent, diligent and helpful can go a long way to differentiating you from others and ensuring you stand out.
How to network with other professionals
If you want to make the most of any networking opportunity, it’s crucial to approach it the right way. Some of our essential tips on networking skills include:
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- Be authentic: Try to present yourself as genuinely as possible and treat interactions as a positive experience rather than just a transactional necessity. Focus on building a relationship, not getting something.
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- Be reciprocal: Don’t make it all about what someone can offer you — make sure you offer your insights and advice where possible.
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- Be available: After connecting with someone, follow up with a message and keep the conversation going. Maintaining the connection ensures the long-term advantages of networking.
A professional network every day
At Melbourne Connect Co-working, you’re surrounded by many innovators, entrepreneurs, startup founders and business owners. Our network is all about collaboration and sharing ideas, and we would love for you to be part of it.
With a range of membership options, we have workspace opportunities tailor-made to fit your business goals and needs. Connect with us today to get started.