Networking! What is networking? Networking is exchanging contact information with people who have similar interests. Networking is growing and maintaining relationships with individuals; it is an ongoing process that takes time and nurturing and not something you do only when you are in need. You cannot just wake up, meet a CEO at a party today, and then ask him for a job the following day. That is not how it is done!
Why is networking important?
Connect with Individuals: The best way to find out about an opportunity is to learn about it from someone who is connected to it, someone who knows your skills and interests and wishes the best for you. What does this mean? Networking is two-way, it is building trust and friendship. Networking will help you meet prospective mentors, partners, and clients
Gather information: Networking will help you grow and improve your skills and knowledge, it will challenge you to stay on top of the latest trends in your career or business. In fact, it will challenge you to get out of your comfort zone, it will encourage you to reflect on what you need to do to grow
Boosts Self-confidence: Speaking to strangers is quite a daunting task especially if it is your first time to embark on a journey of networking. But with time and more engagements, it gets easier. Continuous networking builds self-confidence and self-esteem
So the ultimate question is, who do you network with, and how are they relevant to your career or business? We are advised to do a lot of networking, but honestly, have you been to an event and found no single person who shares the same interests as you? You don’t have to network with everyone, be strategic.
They say the most connected people are the most successful people, We challenge you to go out there and network!
