The importance of networking in work relationships

The world of work is synonymous with teamwork. A company must consist of various interrelated positions. When working, we will coordinate with fellow colleagues or superiors. For that, of course we have to build a good network with them, right?

That is the importance of networking for those of you who are already working. Meanwhile, for you fresh graduates who are still looking for work, networking is no less important. How come? It will help you get a job faster!

Therefore, for first jobbers and first graduates, see this article to the end. We will explain everything about networking in full. Starting from how to build a network, to anyone who has the potential to be used as a network.

What is Network?

Networking in Indonesian means network. In the context of the world of work, it means a network that is formed from the exchange of information or ideas among colleagues with special professions or interests. This term is also commonly referred to as a relationship or connection.

Networking can be formed in a formal or informal environment. Formal environment such as school or university. Meanwhile, the informal environment, for example the hobby community.

This justifies the significance of networking.

Previously, it was explained the importance of networking for people who are already working or who are looking for work. In order to make this explanation more valid, we present the following data.

According to LinkedIn survey results, 80% of professionals say that networking is very important for career success. Meanwhile, 70% of people in 2016 were recruited by companies where they have connections.

Benefits of Building Networking

1. Opening Opportunities and Opportunities

Imagine if you have many acquaintances, you will definitely get more information than those who don't have many acquaintances, right? This is the benefit of relationships. The better it is built, the more opportunities the doors will open.

But remember, if you have many opportunities, don't waste them. Dare to take every opportunity that comes, because maybe, the opportunity will not come for the second time.

2. Building a Mutual Relationship

Do you know the concept of mutualism? It's a mutually beneficial relationship. That type of relationship must be applied in networking. Don't let the relationships you have with people actually be negative or detrimental.

In order for you to establish a mutual relationship, you must continue to cultivate the relationship you form. For example by frequently building communication. Don't just find your relationship when you need it. Of course, this will give a bad impression.

3. Expanding Personal Or Business Visibility

If you have many relationships, then you will be known more. Imagine if you have a business, your business will certainly be increasingly known too, right? You can easily grow your business by working with various parties. For example in the form of investment or brand collaboration.

To enlarge the business vision, you should also build relationships with business people, especially those who are senior or experienced. You can get a lot of information regarding the latest business trends and strategies to increase sales.

4. Expanding Knowledge and Insights

Last but not least, the benefits that you can get by building relationships are of course expanding knowledge and insight. Learning doesn't have to be at school. You can learn a lot from relationships. Maybe even, you will not get that knowledge in formal education.

As we know, sometimes practice differs from theory. Your relations may have gone into the field and checked the facts. So, knowledge from them is very valuable to learn.

How to Develop Networking

1. Maintain Good Relations in Several Communities

You must have a community right? For example campus alumni associations, high school, middle school, or even elementary school. Well, through this community, you can build relationships. Your friends may already work in a company or even set up a business. You can get information about job vacancies from them.

Apart from school alumni, you can also build relationships through hobby communities. For example, if you have a hobby of cycling, join the community. There you can have many acquaintances from various backgrounds. It's possible that someone works in a field you're interested in and their company is hiring.

2. Maintain Good Relations with Colleagues at the Previous Company

Disconnecting from work does not mean breaking up networking either. You never know where the opportunity will come from. So, for those of you who are already working, but decide to resign, keep on maintaining good relations with co-workers at the previous company, OK?

3. Utilize Social Media

Do you have a LinkedIn account? If not, let's hurry up. This platform can not only be used to apply for jobs, but can also be used to build relationships. Yes, with LinkedIn, you can create a professional profile and make connections with lots of people.

Apart from LinkedIn, you can also use social media such as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. All you have to do is polish your account to make it look professional and make friends with people who will influence your career.

4. Take Online Courses

Now, many platforms provide online course services. Most of the time, these services have groups on WhatsApp or Telegram. So, you can take courses that interest you and get to know group members. You can get a lot of knowledge as well as relationships to develop your career.

Potential People for Networking

After knowing how to build networking, maybe now you are asking, "Then, who are the people we can make a relationship with?" Don't worry, in this article we have prepared the answer in the form of the following infographic. Pay close attention, okay!

Let's grow your social network.

Hence, a justification of the significance of networking in the workplace. The most crucial aspect of developing connections is to avoid being embarrassed while meeting new people. Your relationship won't progress if you feel embarrassed in the beginning.

The trick is to not hesitate to introduce yourself. You can make a good impression if you are bold and self-assured. This may pique the interest of those you meet in developing a relationship with you.

Don't forget to observe morals and body language when you meet someone in person. For instance, act courteously and amiably. A further item that is frequently overlooked is developing communication skills. You understand that this is still significant. So, don't forget to keep improving your communication skills, OK? That way, you can definitely establish good networking with anyone.