THE POWER OF NETWORKING

By Candice Rhodes-Marshall, MBA

Today, professionals in different fields have embraced networking as a self-management approach towards career growth. Indeed, the value of networking aligns with the saying that fast progress takes individual effort while impactful progress requires joint input. However, for a long time, my attitude towards networking has been negative. Prior to the covid-19 pandemic, I had not comprehended the benefits of networking which explains my relatively few connections on LinkedIn. I suppose that this aspect relates to the concept of lower need for affiliation. Interestingly, not all employees attach value to networking especially those who are less inclined to social involvement (Volmer et al., 2021). There is a possibility that I have lower need for affiliation. However, I have witnessed the benefits of networking and I am now committed to network properly to be able to reap the benefits.

In order to network properly, I must start by changing my attitude towards networking and embrace its positive outcomes. Next, I will have to devise a plan. This would entail establishing my value in the networking process. I will have to identify my specific strengths, talents, and skills that could prove useful in the networking process. Further, proper networking would require use of varied platforms including face-to-face connections and technological platforms. Most importantly, proper networking would require consistency in making new connections while following up on existing ones.

Through proper networking and establishment of a personal brand, the benefits of networking emerge. The first benefit of networking entails work related assistance, as one is able to get professional help including guidance on fast and efficient completion of tasks (Davis et al., 2020). The benefits emanate from easy access to useful information and ideas for professional growth. Networking also offers job search assistance through job recommendations as well as emotional and social support from like-minded individuals (Davis et al., 2020). Finally, networking enhances career sponsorship thereby enabling career progression.

Networking benefits can only be attained through quality connections. Quality connections are defined by value, such that the people one connects with have a direct association to the networking goals (Volmer et al., 2021). Quality connections are long-term and solid as they entail deeper interaction levels. On the other hand, quantity of connection pertains to the number of connections and may be useful for sales generation and referrals. Knowing people before needing them is equally important. Prior knowledge about people creates opportunity to understand their strengths, competencies, expertise, and general information. Thus, when in need of help, it becomes easy to reach out, as one already understands them. Furthermore, prior knowledge enables establishment of solid relationships such that at the time of need, the people are less likely to decline. Relating to my case of poor networking start, I faced challenges when trying to adopt a new career. I was in need but I lacked quality connections. At this point, seeking help from people I barely knew seemed a desperate and unprofessional move.

Concisely, I have witnessed networking benefits and I commit to network properly. Proper networking would entail a change of attitude, planning, and consistency. In the process, I would build a personal brand through active LinkedIn presence and volunteering. Proper networking also entails quality connections, which result from knowing people earlier before seeking help. In the end, the benefits of networking such as work assistance, job recommendations, and social support depict the power of networking.

Davis, J., Wolff, H. G., Forret, M. L., & Sullivan, S. E. (2020). Networking via LinkedIn: An examination of usage and career benefits. Journal of Vocational Behavior, 118, 103396. Volmer, J., Schulte, E. M., Handke, L., Rodenbücher, L., & Tröger, L. (2021). Do all employees benefit from Daily networking? The moderating effect of the affiliation motive. Journal of Career Development, 48(5), 555-568.