When you think of networking, you likely your job is likely the primary motivator, at least initially.
After all, one of the main forces for getting out there and meeting other professionals is with your career or business being top-of-mind. If you’ve lost sight of just how networking can benefit you professionally, it may be time for a few reminders on just what networking can do for you.
Stronger Business Connections
Remember, good networking is a two-way street. That means that while you’re gaining information from contacts, you should also be offering up the same. In the process, you form a trusting relationship and one where you’re providing mutual aid, so to speak. It’s here that you can form bonds that later lead to achieving specific career goals like finding a position that advances your professional status or that helps you land a dream client.
Gain Fresh Perspective
Feeling like you have nothing new to offer ideas-wise at work? Are you a bit burned out? Networking and bouncing ideas around can help you to get a new look at something by seeing it from someone else’s viewpoint.
Become Known
By getting yourself out to networking events (even virtual ones), and being seen, you’re more likely to be thought of when it comes to referrals and the like. Increase your chances further by not only being in attendance but by being knowledgeable and as good as a listener as you are a communicator.
Get Advice and Support
Facing a challenge at work, or in your business and just don’t know what decision to make or direction to take? Networking allows you to seek advice from trusted peers versus blindly asking for help.
Strengthen Communication Skills
Putting yourself out there, meeting new people, and communicating and listening on a regular basis helps you build on essential skills that are invaluable social tools you use day-in and day-out in the workplace and business world. Keep yourself sharp.
Discover your True Path
Feel like maybe the college degree you earned just doesn’t apply to what you now see as your dream job? Are you in a profession that you’re no longer passionate about? Networking can help you to meet new people, learn about what they are doing, and perhaps even find a new future and lifelong career that you love.
Nikki Murry is editor of Berks County Living magazine and a freelance writer, editor, proofreader and blogger. In her free time she is an active dog rescue volunteer and enjoys spending time with her 16-year-old son, Riley, and her three dogs: Buddha and Shelly, French Bulldogs, and Bruno, a Boston Terrier.