Have you heard the phrase, "it's not what you know, it's who you know?" Networking can be an invaluable asset when it comes to professional development - particularly for teachers.
One such networking initiative is the Learning Regions initiative, which seeks to foster regional learning cultures. Another networking example includes Nigerian Adult Literacy Network's efforts in combatting high illiteracy rates across Nigeria.
1. It’s a great way to build your network.
"It's not what you know, it's who you know" holds true when it comes to networking. To succeed in your career and advance it further, networking is crucial and building relationships within an industry is key for growth.
Networking can help those in the marketing field learn of new trends and strategies that could benefit their businesses, as well as gain information on what other companies are doing that may help you remain competitive.
Networking can also be an invaluable way to connect with like-minded individuals. One effective strategy for doing so is through joining professional associations, attending conferences or participating in online social media groups. You could also ask existing contacts to introduce you to people they know or attend conferences that feature breakfast discussions groups and social hours designed specifically to bring like-minded people together.
2. It’s a great way to build your reputation.
Cultivating relationships and networking is an invaluable way to enhance your reputation in business. Potential clients and customers who see that you have an impressive list of connections are more likely to trust your company and do business with it.
Networking provides another great advantage: knowledge sharing. By talking with other professionals in your industry, you can learn a great deal about current trends and challenges they are experiencing - potentially providing new ideas and ways to solve problems.
However, networking takes time - you must put forth effort to form relationships, then be patient until they start paying off. Just like farming requires extensive preparation of soil and planting of seeds before anything will show for it in terms of benefits - but persevering will pay off in the end!
3. It’s a great way to find a job.
Networking can help you discover opportunities that may not have been advertised. Knowing someone working at a company of interest could also put in good words or help secure an interview for you. Furthermore, networking can provide invaluable advice about specific industries or companies as well as provide great information and guidance about job searches in general.
Networking may seem intimidating at first, but it doesn't need to be. Just remember to be friendly and direct in your interactions and follow up on leads you receive. Networking should be seen as an exchange process - the more often you network, the greater its benefits will become evident.
Do not hand out business cards on street corners - rather seek networking events tailored specifically towards your interests and abilities. Join online networking groups that provide a more relaxed setting that are better tailored towards meeting your needs.
4. It’s a great way to make friends.
Chances are, you have heard the old adage "it's who you know, not what you know". Networking can be one of the best ways to meet new people and expand your circle of acquaintances.
Networking successfully means finding commonalities across different spheres of your life, creating what networking scientists refer to as a "multiplex" connection with someone and giving you more reasons to stay in contact.
An effective networking relationship should go beyond simply meeting people. While it is easy to confuse networking with friendship, networking should focus on forging meaningful relationships that further your professional goals - not necessarily friendship. You may make new acquaintances at events such as coffee breaks and social hours at conferences, but you can also network through email conversations or Zoom meetings with colleagues, mentors, or other academics in this way and gain access to their network of contacts that could provide useful introductions.
