Whenever the word ‘networking’ is mentioned, people usually think of a series of planned steps and processes involved in interacting vertically with people to develop professional relationships.
Some people also think that networking is for Extroverts and that they are best at building a network. This myth isn’t true because anyone can network irrespective of their personality type.
In this article, you will learn what networking means, how to network, common misconceptions about networking, and some steps to network in an ideal way.
What is Networking?
Networking is the process or action of interacting with people to exchange information. During this process, professional or social relationships can be developed. Networking is not as complicated as some people make it to be.
It could involve having a simple conversation, whether formal or informal. There’s no best time to start building a network.
Many people make the mistake of waiting till they need a network before they start building. It is crucial to mention that building a network requires long-term intentionality and effort.
Therefore, start by developing a list of people you meet through different mediums, as some may grow into channels of opportunities in the future.
Difference Between Vertical and Horizontal Networking
When it comes to knowing how to network and building professional connections, there are two common approaches: Vertical and Horizontal Networking.
Vertical Networking: Vertical networking is the establishment of connections with people at different hierarchical levels in the same industry or organization. This relationship can be between an entry-level employee and a manager.
Horizontal Networking: Horizontal networking occurs when individuals within similar fields or roles connect. This might be between professionals in close hierarchies, and the connection could span diverse industries, organizations, and geographical locations.
| Vertical Networking | Horizontal Networking |
| Connections within your company or industry hierarchy | Connecting with colleagues, peers, and professionals across different industries or organizations |
| It aids career advancement and more access to opportunities within the current company | It helps with collaboration and knowledge sharing. |
| Possible access to guidance and mentorship from experienced professionals | Access to different perspectives from professionals in diverse organizations and industries. |
| Knowledge of how decisions are made at higher levels | Opportunities for cross-disciplinary learning |
| More rapport with influential stakeholders | Building a diverse and broad professional network. |
Why is Networking Important?
Networking is crucial for career growth and relevance. This means that everyone can benefit from networking, irrespective of their experience level. Networking can be the game-changer between an astounding and mediocre career.
Here are some reasons why you should take networking more seriously
- Newer Opportunities
CNBC reports that 70% of jobs were never published publicly. In a similar statistic by Hubspot, 85% of jobs are filled via networking. When you start networking, more opportunities begin to open up.
People who have networked over a period have been able to seamlessly expand because of newer opportunities. Networking allows you to meet the right people who might positively change your life.
By nurturing connections with colleagues, industry professionals, and peers, you can gain access to exclusive career opportunities that might not be available to just everyone.
- Boosts your creative intellect
Networking allows you to connect with people from different fields and backgrounds. As you interact with them, you can develop new perspectives and ideas that stimulate your creativity. During networking, you can learn from people’s expertise and experiences, enabling you to broaden your understanding of various subjects.
When you receive feedback from mentors or colleagues about your ideas, their validation and constructive criticism help to fine-tune your notions and spark more creativity.
- Boost your professional profile
If you want to be more visible as a professional, try networking. By attending professional and social events, people may become more familiar with your face.
But it doesn’t end there. Do something that helps you stand out from other attendees. For instance, ensure you listen carefully and ask thought-provoking questions that people are likely to think of.
It is also important you remember names and be ever-ready to offer your expertise and knowledge. Take out time to gradually build your reputation and credibility as a professional, always ready to offer valuable tips to people.
- Long-lasting personal relationships
Beyond developing and nurturing professional relationships, you can build personal relationships by networking. In some cases, some people from your professional network can turn out to be some of your best and trusted friends.
While you continue to invest in relationships via networking, trust begins to develop. This trust builds a foundation of dependability and reliability where you can depend on them for advice and support.
As this personal connection begins to develop, you will discover that you share goals and values with them which nurtures more intimate bonds.
Common Misconceptions about Networking
Having a good network teaches you things and keeps you informed. However, there are many reasons keeping people from networking. These reasons are mostly due to what they have heard or experienced in the past which are often untrue.
Here are some common myths about networking that people believe
Misconception 1: Some people are gifted at networking
The truth is, no one is gifted at networking. People often believe that networking is better suited for extroverts than introverts. However, networking is a soft skill that can be developed and nurtured if you’re intentional about it. Therefore, imbibe a growth mindset that helps you believe that any skill can be developed over time.
Misconception 2: Networking is only for those who need jobs
This is not true because networking is equally beneficial to those with jobs. Networking involves making connections that benefit you as an individual or professional, whether you have a job or not. You can learn new skills and fresh information that makes you a more valuable and credible professional.
Misconception 3: You can only Network at work events
The truth is you can network anywhere and build solid relationships. Keep an open and receptive mind to connect with people at a party, cafe, the beach, and anywhere else.
Misconception 4: Relationships should happen naturally
People who expect relationships to form naturally tend to be poor at nurturing their existing relationships.
For any relationship to form and remain healthy, it requires intentionality and commitment. Be deliberate about forming new relationships and cultivating them to stand the test of time.
Misconception 5: Networking can only happen in person
This is not entirely true, as technology has made it easier to network with people from the comfort of our location. Social media and online platforms offer several opportunities to connect with people regardless of where they stay.
Examples of professional networking
Networking can begin from anywhere. The primary goal of networking is to launch the lines of communication. From there, you can start building relationships that are relevant to your career.
Here are some examples of professional networking:
- Industry Conferences and Events
- Professional Associations and Organizations
- Alumni Networks
- Informational Interviews
- Participating in Online Workshops
- Virtual Communities
- Career fairs and Conferences
How to Network Effectively: 5 Networking Tips
As mentioned earlier, networking can be learned if you are deliberate about it. With the tips below, you can learn how to network and become great at it.
- Study your interest ahead
If there’s anyone you have in mind and want to build a connection with, it would be great to study them ahead. To learn how to network effectively, take out time to know more about them. Going through their socials would be a great way to know how they think, their interests, values, and even hobbies. Having this knowledge makes it easier to start a conversation with them.
- Meet New People
Another way to learn how to network is to be intentional about meeting new people. Sometimes, you can go all out and meet people that you’ve not seen before. For instance, if you attend a networking event, take that advantage to meet people. You can converse about the event, the industry, hobbies, and values to see if there’s a connection.
- Be solution-oriented
When you’re approaching anyone to network, present yourself as a solution-oriented individual. Portray yourself as someone who can add value to problems in your industry. You can subtly highlight the perks of collaborating with you to eliminate obstacles or solve long-standing problems.
- Do Excellent work in your little capacity
Knowing how to network also involves being excellent at what you do. People are more likely to give you a listening ear if you have a track record of doing exceptional work. You may be at the early phase of your career, but doing excellent work in your capacity shows your potential for growth and leadership.
- Nurture your existing connections
Some people make the mistake of not keeping in touch with their present relationships as new people come into their lives. While you network with more people, revisit older relationships. Learn to ask for updates on what they are up to, and see if it is possible to reconnect in-person or just stay in touch virtually.
Conclusion
Learning how to network is a crucial skill for personal growth and professional advancement. With the tips mentioned in this article, you can adopt a strategic and proactive approach to expanding your professional network.
It is vital to mention that effective networking spans beyond exchanging contacts and business cards. It involves the genuine willingness to offer value to people in diverse ways.
