Why Networking is Important
The Power of Allies and Forming Connections
Who’s with me?
That is the question you should probably ask yourself from time to time, but let me ask you some more. Who is on your side? Who do you think will come to help when you need it most? Where in your circle can you reliably look for support? Although asking yourself these questions might not feel too comfortable, I would encourage you to do so and to do it often, as they can help you to assess the success of your networking strategy as it currently stands.
In this brief article, I will urge you to think of the power which lies in strong connections, partnerships, and relationships, all of which you can nurture on a daily basis. I will explain why it is so important to keep good relations with others and how these social connections can help you to achieve your goals. Remember, become aware of your relationships and foster them well.
Surround yourself with people that inspire you
Since the dawn of civilisation, great people have surrounded themselves with others who were able to enrich and empower their lives. From political leaders to great artists, every successful person could point to at least a few individuals that genuinely helped them in their climb to the top. Whatever they might have called it then, this is classic networking! That is why it is imperative that you practice the attitude of humility, and connect sincerely with those who wish you the success you’re looking for.
Whether in a work environment or in your personal life, finding people who inspire you and your efforts is crucial to tackling challenges and delivering against your goals. Now, think of the friends you spend the most time with. How many of them will be there when you need their help? Think of the work colleagues and peers around you too. Who could provide you with the guidance you need to succeed? Creating connections with others requires conscious effort, but it is worth the brainpower.
So, fill your network with allies and improve as you do so!
Give others what they need
Every relationship is a two-way street. Networking effectively sometimes means forming true friendships, you have to properly care for the people in your life. Expressing genuine interest in their lives, work, and personality is a great way of connecting and gaining their respect. Life is a journey, which often challenges you, so by helping others, you’re likely to find help yourself.
Get into the habit of trying to find ‘the middle way’. When doing business, look for solutions that help both you and your partner. When spending time with friends, acknowledge their worth and provide them with the understanding and courtesy that we all desire. Creating connections does take time and isn’t always easy, but it is a skill worth mastering, for both yourself and your ambitions.
Simply, give others what they need, and rejoice when they want to return the favour!
Teamwork makes the dream work
Although there are projects and activities you could take up by yourself, it is still worth sometimes calling for a team effort when considering a plan of action. If you’re working for a company, you’re likely to have a team who does the job alongside you. If so, get into the habit of supporting your teammates on the assignments that they need your help with, be proactive in offering your support as they won’t always feel comfortable asking. Recognise your strengths and use them to make their life easier. It will help your networking in the long run, I promise.
Sometimes it might seem challenging to work with someone else on a project which requires a lot of decisions to be made. This is because with more perspectives to appeal to, it can be difficult to find a solution that fits you all. Nevertheless, by showing a commitment to the betterment of your group, you will gain an invaluable insight into your teammate’s wishes, worries, and expectations. This will help all of you arrive upon a workable solution.
Practice your teamwork-focused attitude, strengthen your bonds by working together!
Stay reliable and connected
By taking onboard the points mentioned above, you will be a few steps closer to networking in a way that can help support your ambitions. Regardless of your work arrangements, social status, or professional sector, by taking care of those around you, you will quickly discover the favourable advantages of being a people person and a team player.
It is important, however, to not let your colleagues down by approaching this attitude artificially. There is no shortcut to success, so practicing such an approach must be a purposeful and genuine activity. Practice being more aware of the ways in which you make people feel, and strive for meaningful connections when meeting someone new or reigniting a previous relationship. Recognise the value of teamwork and strive every day to make the most of it.
In the words of Dale Carnegie – “teamwork is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results”.
Finally
On a final note, remember the importance of staying reliable and connected with your network. It is very easy to fall prey to routine and become less interested in the people around you, particularly when the going gets tough. That is why the most important challenge you need to overcome is unreliability. Become a person that truly cares and keeps their word – it is a crucial, perhaps the most important aspect of the whole process. Make sure that the people that depend on you, can trust in you fully, especially when you’ve made them believe you won’t let them down. If you say you’re going to do something, make sure it gets done. This might seem a challenging task, but it is essential to your success. You will be appreciated for it.
Before you go
Did you enjoy this article and would like to know more? Check out our article ‘How to make a great team with different personalities?’ and learn in more detail how to become a better team player! If you’re hoping to build a network of reliable freelancers and ambitious clients, register with Revolancer today.
Freelance marketplace: Revolancer