Networking is perhaps one of the most essential elements that significantly contributes to business success stories. It is not only vital for those who are looking for expand their product presence in the market, but also for those who are looking for new job opportunities. Whether you are interested in getting marketing jobs or are simply interested in investment ideas, networking will take you a long way if you do it right. Ultimately, the people in your network know you the best and could therefore provide you with references in order to get you where you need to be.
The benefits of networking
If you are currently looking for a job, it may be quite difficult to find the right one considering the current economic situation. If you don’t have much work experience, then it is even more difficult. In a lot of cases, you have to work really hard just to convince the HR manager, future employer, whoever is interviewing you, that you are the right person for the job and that you can become an asset to the company. Graduate jobs in particular could prove to be an uphill battle unless you have obtained credible endorsements from your contacts.
When maintaining your contacts, it is important to stay noticed. So make sure that you regularly comment on LinkedIn groups and blogs that are relevant to the industry that you work in. Also do this with your Twitter account. If you do this regularly, then it shows that you are passionate about what you do to potential recruiters. Also, your contacts will be more likely to give you a recommendation because they see the passion in what you do.
It is also important to mention that good networking will eventually have an effect on the movement within or across “the system”. With the system, I am referring to your career path. The more people you know, the bigger your network is, the more likely that you will have smoother career changes. Make sure when you network, to network down, up, and across your system. Meaning, don’t just focus on your industry and your expert field, but also try to connect with others who could potentially indirectly mean something to do in the future.
Lastly, the more you extend your network the more knowledgeable you will become in your industry due to the additional relevant information you are receiving from your network. Marketing professionals in particular are major beneficiaries of networking. Also, don’t forget that recruiters and/or potential employers will know how big your network is (think about your LinkedIn profile) so the more contacts, the more likely your chances are of getting the interview.
