Building a solid network of professional associates can benefit your personal and professional growth. Networking is essential for any business that wants to succeed, whether you are a freelancer, a small business owner, or the CEO of a Wealth 500 company. Let’s discuss the benefits of networking.
Establishing and maintaining an expert network can help you find new clients, gain valuable advice, and open up new chances for growth and collaboration.
According to Statista, an investigation publishing site, most staff believe networking is essential to increasing opportunities. In 2011, 26% of respondents said networking was crucial to finding new opportunities and closing business deals. 45% considered it necessary. This alone shows how valuable networking is for business goals.
Do you want to know the profound benefits of networking? Follow us through this list of 8 benefits of networking for every professional in 2023.
Why is networking important?
Using your network is one of the best ways to find a novel job or position at your current business. Why is networking so important? It repeatedly comes down to one keyword: referrals.
Thirty-one per cent of job seekers find work through professional connections, including referrals. Networking can open the door to opportunities otherwise out of reach.
A solid professional relationship may also entice someone to hand-deliver their resume to the hiring manager’s office. This can make you stand out and even help you land your dream job one day.
Many people think that networking is only valid when looking for a job. But the drive of networking goes far beyond finding your next job opportunity.
1. Develop lasting relationships
One of the most significant benefits of networking is that your best professional connections will often become personal connections. To be connected in the first place, you probably have something in common, so it’s no surprise that these connections often transcend professional contacts to become lasting personal friendships.
2. Diversity of thought and access to novel information
It’s human nature to like to be in your comfort zone, and it’s no different when it comes to work. Even if you’re comfortable, an autopilot or habitual approach to your work or career can hold you back, slow your progress, and distract you from new technology or healthier ways of working.
Proactively seeking alternative viewpoints and new ideas from your network can help you solve problems, see challenges from a different perspective, and enhance your personal and professional development.
Taking advantage of a professional network is also a great way to stay up to date with the latest market trends or learn about new opportunities with companies you would like to work for. By connecting with people in your immediate circle of friends, you will develop knowledge and broader awareness that may eventually help you or better inform your career decisions.
3. Access to new clients
By building relationships with persons in your industry or related industries, you can tap into new sources of business. This can be especially useful if you are trying to expand your customer base or looking for new sources of income for your business.
One way to gain access to new clients through networking is to establish relationships with other business owners or professionals in your industry. These people may have customers who need the products or services you offer and may be willing to recommend you to those customers. This can be a great way to open the door to new potential clients.
4. Valuable industry insights
Talking to and building relationships with other professionals allows you to learn about your field’s latest trends, challenges, and opportunities. This can help you stay knowledgeable and plan new strategies as your industry evolves.
For example, networking can help you learn about new technologies or emerging trends if you work in the technology industry. This can help you stay ahead and make informed decisions about your business.
5. Building trust
Face-to-face networking is a beautiful opportunity to develop your confidence. This valuable social skill will take you far in your career, whether in job interviews, meetings or social situations. By regularly exposing yourself to meeting new people, your communication skills will also develop.
Virtual or in-person networking
Virtual networking is now easier than ever. And with so numerous video technology platforms and virtual events available, networking is still possible if face-to-face isn’t your thing. Whether in person, face-to-face, or a combination of both, expanding your network is essential to professional development.
