Networking

Networking
is an important part of the career world and essential for long last business
relations. Networking is the action or
process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop
professional or social contacts. This is necessary because relations to
individuals and professionals within your community can lead to potential job
leads. It is statistically proven that only 20% of jobs are posted in the open
market. That means that 80% is left unspoken and undiscovered by the general
public. This is why networking is such an important quality. These relations
that we build with others open doors and connections for us to reach out and access
a market of jobs that is not displayed to the public.

**Benefits of Networking**:

**It allows you to help others**: You can be the person that helps another
individual land their job. By helping others your building relations and
increasing your opportunities

**The exchange of fresh ideas**: Most are constantly are wanting to remain on
top of the information for their business. Networking allows for you to receive
new information faster than the general public and begin to put into use.

**Makes you more visible**: Making yourself visible does not end when you
land that job. Making yourself visible in the workplace is crucial to climb the
corporate ladder. The advantages of networking is that it makes you more
visible to the right people. Through your connections, you can eventually become
that person who “knows everyone”.

**Opens doors to new opportunities**: Because networking makes you more visible, it
also opens new doors for you.

**Allows you to express opinions**: Networking acts as a support system for you
to discuss business opinions and ask for business advice.

**Expands your support network**: Networking helps expand your support network
that can assist you in all stages of your career. Many individuals will have
gone through what you are about to and can provide tips to succeed.

**Gets you promoted**: Having an open network is a predictor for
success. This can give you the upper hand for promotions. Connecting with
professionals can provide insight and improve your efficiency which will in
turn make you become more favorable to your employer.

**Boosts your self-esteem**: Knowing people, getting asked about and
discussing your opinions, and asking to introduce others to people within your
network will boost your self-esteem.

**It becomes your resource**: The professionals within your network can aid
you in the information of current business events and answer some business
questions.

**Networking tips**:

Networking is about establishing mutual
beneficial relations with other individuals, not just asking for jobs for
everyone. Have proper etiquette and manners when building your relationships.
Follow up on your contacts to thank them and connect with them on LinkedIn.

**LinkedIn**:

LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional
network that connects individuals together and increases professional
opportunities. Essentially, LinkedIn is the Facebook of the business world.
LinkedIn is a smart way to establish networking opportunities and begin to
create business relationships.

https://career.utk.edu/students/networking/

https://www.careeraddict.com/benefits-networking