Networking has always been one thing I hate doing. Just the mere thought of attending a networking event, I get turned off or sick. And considering my personality – an introvert, it was worst.
I have always seen networking to be this cringe and miserable until it was done on me that all I thought about networking were just a misconception.
I got to realize that Networking is worth going for. It actually serves as an avenue to create long-term relationships with mutual benefits. And in fact, should be at the core of my career.
In this article, I have put down relevant information about networking, why I hated it, why I adapted fast to it and the best tips on what you can enjoy
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Table of contents
What is Networking?
According to Investopedia, Networking is the informal social exchange of information and ideas among people who share a shared profession or special interest. A single piece of common ground is generally the starting point for networking.
Most professionals use Facebook to broaden their circles of acquaintances, learn about job prospects in their industries, and become more aware of news and trends in their fields and the larger world.
Talking about why most people network, I think people usually join networking organizations because they have a single common interest that they all share.
For instance, a professional affiliation, such as stockbrokers, college alumni organization, a professional association, or a trade association.
As a professional, networking can help you stay up to date on current developments in your sector while also forming relationships that may help with future business or employment opportunities.
It will also provide you the opportunity to assist others in finding jobs, making connections, and keeping up with current events.
Read Also: List of Networking Questions That Can Keep People Engaged in a Work Conversation
Can You be Successful without Networking?
Emphatically, yes.
You can be successful without networking just that networking will make the journey much easier and after.
For instance, I have a friend who got a well-paying job knowing no one. The thing is, as time goes on he got to build connections with people. He got connected with his bosses, other workers, etc., who voted him to lead projects and promotions.
I think it is quite possible, but you have to impress people you didn’t know before, but meet along the way and then they are in some sense, I guess, connections… that you’ve made as you went along.
Before we proceed, let me take you through my first-hand experience with networking which was why I hated networking at first.
Why I Hate Networking at First
Before this time, I hated networking. I always feel that networking for me is a ‘No-go’ with the type of my person. This was owing to some reasons I will be sharing with you in few minutes.
Networking is Demanding
One of the reasons why I hate networking was because I find it demanding and stressful. As an introvert, I didn’t find networking fun at all although it is fun. As a fellow who doesn’t associate with people, can’t talk, and even pees on my body when addressing a large house out of anxiety and tension, I found networking demanding and stressful.
Scared of Engaging People in Conversations
Another reason why I hate networking then was because I considered my personality. Most people especially introverts like me are always scared of engaging people we don’t know in a conversation.
So, because networking programs have to do with meeting strangers who might even make you look stupid or silly because you want to pitch an idea to them, I just thought I shouldn’t waste my time.
Read Also: The Difference Between Networking and Making Friends
Networking Looks like Scam
Personally, I felt anything networking is fake and a scam. Over the years, I have heard stories of people falling victims to fraudulent activities.
So, because I thought anyone that meets you to talk about any networking event just wants to dupe you, I didn’t want anyone to see me in the same light.
Too Busy for Networking Programs
This was another reason why I hate networking events. Apart from the above reason I listed above, I was too busy to give networking a trial. As far as its networking, I always say ”I don’t have time” even when I knew that I hadn’t chosen to take the time for it.
Personally, I was someone with so many demands on my time that physically attending networking events is nearly impossible.
These and more were some why I hate networking. And I was so convinced that I don’t need it until I got a different insight about it.
At a time, it was done on me that I was risking and losing more by not trying to network.
What then happened?
I had to take it the other way round. Made up my mind to give it a trial. And guess what?
It worked!
There was much more to networking than I thought. And these reasons were the major reasons I adapted very fast to networking.
So, if you hate networking like I once did and you want to get a new insight into it, here are five (5) reasons to adapt very fast in networking:
#1. A forum for exchanging thoughts
You can never tell how much you know unless you listen to what other people have to say.
The reservoir of information or ideas you’ve accumulated throughout time is mostly responsible for your work success.
When networks are established, they encourage the exchange of ideas necessary to maintain long-term connections and mutual trust.
Receiving ideas benefits you both at work and outside of it, as well as instituting excellent practices that benefit your job.
#2. It draws attention to you.
Those seeking attention for business, politics, or even stardom rely heavily on networking. People are ready to notice others who are more capable of making them important.
When you distinguish yourself in both your expertise and the services you provide, you open the door to collaboration, leading to career development.
Many professionals have learned how to strengthen their networking skills and increase visibility for various associates and clients along their career paths.
Read Also: 10 Networking Follow-up Email for Various Persons at Work in 2023
#3. Examine your credentials again.
It’s one thing to network. It’s one thing to have it, but it’s another to be able to put it to use. You may believe that your current level in your discipline is the most you may ever reach.
But have you ever looked at the many stages of your chosen career and how other people in comparable situations have progressed to their current position?
Let’s be honest, appreciating certifications is fine, but the path to that level can only be walked if you have a strong network and positive relationships with people.
#4. Creates a path to newer possibilities
When people start to notice you, it opens up new doors for you. Because of the channel of greater prospects provided to them through networking, business and career-minded individuals who have networked over time have been able to expand with less effort.
Meeting the proper clientele or even meeting people who are more advanced in their careers than you could be a stepping stone that changes your life for the better.
#5. Establish long-term partnerships.
If networking is a two-way street, having the correct networking channel can assist you to advance your career. Though networking is not an easy or quick way to establish a long-term relationship.
Making it a two-way process of giving and taking, on the other hand, can pave the way for a more solid partnership. People who have made networking their top priority have been able to develop careers that are aligned with their objectives.
Apart from these top 5 reasons, other reasons you should give networking a try includes:
Enhances your creative thinking ability
Most of the time, the external forces that shape our aspirations and amazing discoveries come from the environment in which we find ourselves.
However, contacts we have made with other people over time have considerably boosted our intellectual capacity in many vocations.
Even a single interaction with one individual can turn a year’s worth of research into a breakthrough.
Like-minded people who have been allowed to communicate ideas have sharpened their brains, allowing them to advance in their careers and release their creative potential.
You will have self-assurance
In a fruitful job, networking is the most important instrument for advancement.
Networking provides training and certification, which boosts self-confidence and self-esteem. When you connect with like-minded people in your work, the self-confidence you’ve earned over time might assist put you in a good mood.
This also provides you with the opportunity to shine during employment interview sessions. As a result, the more effectively you network, the greater your self-confidence will grow over time.
Read Also: I Just Lost my Job! 10 Quick Things You Must Do Now
Can Help increase your social standing
Depending on how you focus on your networking path, developing your career standing is a long-term process. Top career individuals’ position in networking has helped them get to where they are now.
So, your ability to grow is largely due to the contacts you maintain. Your networks have a significant impact on your professional advancement and open the door for higher prospects. Your relationships are quite effective!
Before I wrap it up, let me give you some tips on how to network and have fun.
Tips on How to Network
Before you need it, start networking.
From across the room, seasoned networkers can detect the stench of despair. When someone is simply looking out for himself, it is obvious.
They’ll run the other way if they see anything from a terrified look in the eyes to a portfolio stuffed with resumes.
When you network with no ulterior motive, on the other hand, you can begin to create relationships and a reputation for being giving rather than self-serving.
Make a strategy.
Because everyone has worth, it’s critical that you understand yours. Get clear on what abilities, strengths, skill sets, and contacts you can bring to every networking event before you go.
Make a list of things you want to talk about, including how you might be able to help others now or in the future.
Forget about your personal schedule.
While you may be tempted to network just for the sake of landing a job or speaking with people you wouldn’t ordinarily have access to, this is a mistake.
Make it your mission to be open, friendly, and honest, as well as to form relationships between people who may be able to assist one another.
Generosity is a desirable characteristic, and it is something that others will remember about you.
Never dismiss someone as insignificant.
Make it your mission to find the worth in everyone you meet. Pose questions and pay attention to what’s being said. Don’t make the mistake of judging people solely on the basis of their titles.
Someone you encounter may appear to be nothing more than a clerk, yet they may have significant connections or expertise that you would have never discovered if you had rejected them.
Then, as you go on to the next individual, keep in mind what that person has to offer.
Follow Up
If you said you’d contact someone, follow through and reconfirm your willingness to help in any manner you can.
Take the time to fulfill your pledge to introduce someone to someone you know.
Even though everyone is busy these days with jobs, families, events, and responsibilities, sending an email to introduce two people you want to connect with takes less than a minute.
They can take it from there and handle the work; all they have to do now is enjoy being the bridge.
Little gestures like that mean a lot to individuals, and a single introduction can make a huge difference in someone’s life. It’s something I’ve witnessed dozens of times and it’s quite satisfying.
Conclusion
Considering my points about why I hate networking and the impacts networking can have you one’s career, it’s obvious I was just limiting myself to opportunities. I won’t advise you to like me. Starting building networks right away if you don’t want to narrow your opportunity pathways!
Reference
- themuse.com – 4 reasons you don’t like networking
- forbes.com – Why networking should be at the core of your career
- investopedia.com – Networking
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