As important as skills are in the workplace, they are not enough for one to climb the career ladder alone because networking is also equally as crucial.
A global LinkedIn survey found that 70% of people in 2016 were hired at a company because of a professional connection. Based on that number alone, networking is considered an essential skill not just for regular employees but for business owners and leaders as well.
Biztorming once discussed the importance of conferences, mentioning that they are not just a good source of learning but of networking as well. During these affairs, you have the chance to be introduced to new clients, businesses, and ideas. You get to personally know the people you’ve either read or heard about.
So if you find any opportunity for networking, go ahead and grab it. Here’s how networking can help further your career:
It helps build your knowledge base
Most people would stay on top of industry trends by taking courses or reading news items. In reality, there’s also tons of information you can pick up simply by talking to other professionals. These people can give you new insights and different perspectives of the industry, which will give you an edge over competitors. You can take advantage of positive interactions with peers and other people in your industry because it makes you stand out, especially among others who have limited knowledge from learning about the industry online. There is a lot more energy in being physically present around like-minded individuals than in online learning channels.
It brings more opportunities
Since networking makes you more visible, it can open new doors in your career. With the help of good professional relationships, you may get promoted or receive a salary increase. If a recruiter offers you a new position, you can use this fact to leverage your current position. This is because your boss will discover you are in demand, which could result in learning to value you more.
Career Addict also noted that opportunities don’t only come in the form of jobs. It could also mean meeting someone in the industry who can alter your career path, or an offer to start your own business.
This is why networking is vital in growing your startup or even established business. Connecting with influential people can result in new business leads. Over time, your contacts may refer you to other important industry influencers, further expanding your network.
It builds confidence
Presenting yourself to someone new can be intimidating, which is why a lot of people only stick to mingling with co-workers at networking events. But social anxiety is a barrier that should be broken in order to get far in your career. For introverts who want to make it in the business world, networking can be done on your own terms, as it is not like a high school scenario where you are forced to socialize.
Successfully building your network can boost your self-esteem, and many companies appreciate an individual who is able to project their confidence, because it tells them this person knows what they are doing. Furthermore, having a wide circle can provide even improve your social life, as you exhibit newfangled confidence and expand your connections.
At the end of the day, a combination of skills and networking can boost your career faster than you could’ve ever thought possible. You just have to believe in yourself and the power of networking.
Thanks to our Guest Contributor:
Reese Jones
reese.am.jones@gmail.com
@r_am_jones
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