Networking can help to boost your career. A network of contacts is built and maintained in order to support each other in achieving professional goals.
Building a network
A stable network can be beneficial for career development and job hunting. But contacts in the industry can also be useful when setting up your own company. But how does a network actually come about?
Both online and offline formats can be used to build a network. In the physical world, trade fairs, congresses, workshops, seminars or private events and club activities make it possible to make various contacts. In the digital space, however, platforms such as LinkedIn or specialist forums and online courses can help you get to know people from the relevant industry. You should start networking as early as possible so that you can fall back on a successful network if necessary.
The basic rules of networking
Once you have met different people, there are some important basic rules of networking to follow. On the one hand, it should be clearly defined what is to be achieved through the network: Is the focus on professional advantages, such as better job opportunities, or should personal development be promoted (for example through professional exchange)?
In addition, the network should only consist of really relevant contacts who represent similar interests, goals and values. The reason for this is to maintain the network, because regular exchange and personal meetings are essential to maintain and strengthen relationships. The main idea behind networking is mutual support. So you should first offer your own help before expecting support. Against this background, networks should be set up as early as possible.
Avoid these mistakes
Initiating contact is the basic building block of networking, but this usually does not result in sustainable relationships. Both professionally and privately, relationships must be maintained in order to be sustainable. A lack of follow-up meetings can nip a developing relationship in the bud.
In order to convey to the other person a genuine interest in the professional relationship, aggressive sales strategies should be avoided. The goal of networking is to build relationships and maintain them in the long term. Therefore, the other person should be given enough space to discuss their own interests or work-related topics. Active listening is also essential for constructive cooperation.
Editorial team finanzen.net
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