I heard from one of my friends, HR-Guru, and mentors a long-time back Paul Keijzer – Your network is your net worth! It has never been more-true!
I have always somehow known the power of networking, because inherently I somehow understood the value behind it. Moreso, apart from building professional connections, for me, it has always been about learning from others.
Networking has also evolved. No more business card sharing. Apart from individual meetings, it is being part of conversations in large settings. Feeling and using the energy, conversations and insights to build your own value.
One of the reasons I extensively speak at conferences and events is to understand the larger conversations. It has allowed me to not only build the “network” but tap into other’s expertise and experiences.
Every Meeting is an Opportunity
We live in a world where to an extent “It’s not what you know, but who you know” that can make a difference. Every interaction, whether in person or online, presents an opportunity to learn, grow, and advance your goals.
Knowledge Expansion: Connecting with individuals with unique knowledge and experiences. Engaging in conversations that allows you to tap into their experience and expertise
Collaborative Potential: Connecting with people who share your interests can create synergies that result in innovation and new ideas
Career Advancement: Personal branding can lead you to a job that no one
knows about. I have come across some amazing job opportunities thanks to my network
Personal Branding: Helps shapes your personal brand. As you network, you demonstrate your values, skills, and image. A strong personal brand sets you apart
Authentic Connections: Authenticity is key in networking. Being your true self forms genuine connections. Others appreciate you most when you are yourself
Networking works both ways. While you benefit, your network must benefit from you too. Whether it is sharing your expertise, knowledge and experience, you become a bridge in connecting people. Even if it means just connecting two people on email, every small action counts. That also means you need to stack up your expertise, value and what you bring to the table.
Networking is an investment; it is time demanding, and it is tiring. As an introvert, it does not come easy for me, but I have managed to find a balance that allows me to do this sustainably over the years.
I always advice my teams and friends to do this as much as they can. Infect, I think for Total Rewards jobs this is a must. You cannot be a good business partner if you don’t understand what is happening in the market.
For young professionals I strongly advise you to find time and rhythm to build your network over time. The value is immeasurable.
