How important is networking in your job search? People talk about it like it’s the best thing you can do, but how many people really find jobs through their networks? The adage states, “it’s not what you know but who you know,” and that’s still true in many ways. A combination of expertise, competency, and a good network can help you land your next job. Here are the benefits of networking for your career.
Why Is Networking So Important
Networking is Good for Your Health
It may sound kind of weird, but networking is genuinely good for us. It’s good for your mental health by giving you confidence, improving interpersonal skills, and finding a sense of community. Surprisingly, it’s also good for our physical health. Groundbreaking studies at the University of North Carolina show that isolation can be more harmful than diabetes. So get out there and meet new people.
Networking Leads to Creative Thinking
Meeting like-minded people in your industry or career path can help you solve problems and innovate. When you bounce ideas off of other people or hear inspiring thoughts that motivate you to do something new or better, you can see real improvement in your regular performance.
Networking Can Boost Confidence
The old saying practice makes perfect is appropriate here. Networking is cumulative. The more you do it, the better you get. It can be scary meeting new people, but meeting new people is a great way to learn new things and find new opportunities. So continue to push yourself, and you’ll see your confidence grow. It’s not motivation that encourages action, but action that creates motivation.
Networking Helps You Meet Other Professionals
Of course, the primary purpose of networking is to meet other professionals. Meeting other people in your area can help you look for a new job. Even if you’re not in the market, those connections can help you in the future if things ever change. Meeting other professionals also gives you a chance to be a connector or help others out in their careers.
Do you want to expand your network?
Contact the team at Recruiting in Motion to see what we’re working on today.
