Networking Benefits for Any Professional
As professionals, there are certain tools we use, strategies we have, or habits we practice that allows us to further develop ourselves as employers and employees. Part of becoming a better professional version of ourselves can weigh heavily on the company we keep and the network we build to develop. People who are the most connected often translate to the ones who are most successful.
It doesn’t matter if you’re an entry-level professional or someone who’s climbed to the top of the C-Suite, networking is an essential part of any stage in your career. Networking not only helps you improve your skillset, but it also plays a role in keeping you in the know when it comes to the latest trends, while simultaneously introducing you to possible mentors, prospective customers, or future partners.
New Opportunities
Even if you are established in your role and don’t have any interest in looking for other jobs, networking has proven to be a valuable tool when it comes to new opportunities. It’s good to know what’s out there and the trends surrounding hiring and overall industry development. With 70% of jobs never being advertised and getting filled by word of mouth, it’s important to keep your circle close and active in case the opportunity to move ahead in your career comes across your desk even when you aren’t expecting it.
Career Development
If you work for a company that advocates for and proactively provides career development opportunities, take advantage of it whenever possible. Unfortunately, the burden of developing one’s career begins with you in today’s job market. With this in mind, as you network with colleagues and people inside and outside of your industry, keep your eye on opportunities to connect with different mentors, develop areas of expertise, and make yourself more visible to the C-Suite. When you have the chance to attend a work event or industry-specific conference in-person or digitally, do it. The people you might connect with and the skills you could enhance will help make you a more complete professional, bettering your rep on paper and live.
Skill Growth
Skill development is huge when it comes to industry conferences or work events. Attend as many continuous-learning opportunities as you can and soak in the expertise around you whenever possible. Skill growth doesn’t just come from those higher up than you on the ladder, you can take away just as much from people in positions lateral to you and even under you. Skill growth comes from different experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds. Learn from others, no matter where they fall in the hierarchy of your industry or company.
Has networking led to a role that helped to develop your career? Share your experiences by commenting below and check out 4 Ways to Start a Successful Business During a Down Economy.