If you’re on LinkedIn, there’s a good chance you’ve been working to establish or grow your professional network. You’re getting closer to developing your network every time you interact with a post, update your profile, or make a new connection.
Developing ties with others in your sector or field is the main goal of networking. Stated differently, it’s the social aspect of working in a field where you get to interact with individuals who share your interests, exchange ideas, and find new job opportunities.
You can gain a wealth of information, opportunities, and support from your professional network as you advance in your career. Want to learn new skills? You can connect with the knowledge and resources you’ll need to build them through your network. Do you want to use those skills in a new job? Through your network, you can gain access to the “hidden job market,” which consists of unlisted positions that are still unfilled.
In particular, networking might be beneficial while shifting careers. Think about getting in touch with individuals who have previously changed careers in a similar way as well as seasoned professionals in the field. You can find useful transferable skills and learn about effective career-change strategies from people who have already accomplished what you are now trying to accomplish.
Veterans in the industry, on the other hand, will have firsthand experience in the field you intend to pursue and can provide insightful analysis of current trends in the market.
Here are a few quick recommendations to help you expand your network:
Make your objectives clear. Consider your goals for using networking, and then choose the individuals or groups that can best assist you in achieving them. You are free to set any size targets you like.
Consider the people you already know. You might be surprised by how many contacts you already have. Think about getting in touch with friends, acquaintances, former classmates, coworkers, or colleagues.
Explore open networks. You have access to a wealth of networking opportunities. Check out the communities available on websites, online forums, social media, and in-person gatherings organised by trade associations.
Engage actively. Keep showing up and making the effort to keep up your connections because you will probably receive the same energy that you put into your network. Since relationships are two-way streets, show your present and potential connections that you are available and visible. (First, make sure your LinkedIn page is up to date!)
Final Thoughts
Don’t worry if you’re not very good at networking. Examine the relationships in your life that are most fulfilling for you and how you might be able to replicate similar kinds of relationships at work. There are countless methods to cultivate the kind of relationships that will allow you to feel most comfortable being open and honest about who you are and who you are becoming.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. State the 3 C’s of networking.
Cultivating connection, communication, and collaboration are the three C’s of networking.
2. How can I network to get a new job?
Apart from face-to-face meetings, take into account going to events where you can meet new people, like industry-specific conferences, employment fairs, and social gatherings held by businesses. Asking to go to an event with someone in that profession can help you advance in your present field.