Love it or hate it, there’s no getting away from it – networking is crucial for your career.
Building relationships with the right people at the right time can be a game-changer. But if the thought of walking into a room full of strangers makes you want to run off and hide in a dark corner, you’re definitely not alone. Many people shy away from networking but avoiding it can sometimes slow your progress and hold back your success.
In this post, we’ll dive into why networking is so important for your career – and how it’s less about awkward small talk and more about building genuine connections.
What is networking
At its core, professional networking is about building and maintaining relationships with people in your industry or related fields. It’s not just about forcing smiles and swapping business cards (although I know it can sometimes feel like that!); instead, it’s about forming genuine connections.
And it’s not just for job hunting either. While it can undoubtedly help you discover new career opportunities, it’s also a brilliant way to share ideas, learn from others and open doors you didn’t even know existed.
Networking can happen anywhere – at formal industry events, in online communities, through professional groups or even casually over coffee with a colleague. A quick LinkedIn message or a chat at a team meeting? Yes, that’s networking too.
Putting yourself out there opens the door to opportunities that help you learn, grow and advance in your career. And the best part? With the right approach, networking can feel natural, rewarding and (dare I say it?) even enjoyable!
Why is networking important for your career?
Here are 5 key benefits of networking and why it’s so important for your career development:
1. Networking opens doors to new opportunities
A strong network can have a significant positive impact on your career. Research shows that 31% of job seekers find roles through their professional connections. Networking can lead to referrals, job recommendations and project opportunities that you might not have come across through traditional channels. If you’d like to find out more about using networking to secure your next role, this blog has some great practical tips.
2. Networking boosts your visibility
The more you show up – whether online or in person – the more you build your reputation. Engaging in conversations, sharing your ideas and supporting others helps you become a recognised voice in your field, increasing your chances of being noticed for new opportunities.
3. Networking builds confidence
Let’s be honest – for many people, networking can feel nerve-wracking, especially if you’re more on the introverted side. But like anything in life, the more you do it, the easier it becomes. Each interaction helps you strengthen your communication skills, build self-belief and feel more at ease connecting with others.
4. Networking develops long-lasting, meaningful relationships
It’s not just about swapping contact details or adding LinkedIn connections – effective networking is about forming genuine relationships. These connections can offer ongoing support, advice and collaboration opportunities throughout your career.
5. Networking can support your wellbeing
With remote work becoming more common, networking can help combat feelings of isolation. It connects you with others, offers emotional support and creates a sense of belonging – all essential for staying motivated and mentally healthy.
Ready to make networking work for you?
Networking doesn’t have to feel awkward or forced. When done right, it can open doors, build your confidence and help you grow in ways you never expected.
The key is approaching it with the right mindset – focusing on genuine connections rather than just career gains. And the good news? You don’t have to do it alone.
If networking feels like a challenge, let’s chat. You can book a free virtual coffee with me here.
It would also be great to connect with you on Facebook and LinkedIn!
