Networking is the process of establishing and maintaining professional contacts. It helps not only in finding work or clients, but also in exchanging experiences, ideas, and resources. In the context of globalization, a successful business or career requires not only knowledge, but also a developed network of contacts.
According to a study by Harvard Business Review (website: https://hbr.org/), 70% of jobs are not advertised, but are filled through referrals. This confirms the importance of active participation in networking as a key tool for success.
The goals of networking
Networking is not limited to collecting business cards. Its goal is to build mutually beneficial, trusting, and long-term relationships with people who:
- Can share professional insights;
- Know how local processes work in business or education;
- Can recommend the necessary resources, experts, or tools;
- Can provide access to closed vacancies;
- Can search for investors and clients around the world;
- Can help build a professional image.
Advantages
Creating an active network of contacts increases visibility and gives you confidence when entering the job market, launching a startup, or looking for investment partners. It is through networking that hidden job openings, partnership offers, and opportunities to participate in international projects and hackathons are revealed.
- Accelerated career growth;
- Increased trust in you and your project;
- Expanded circle of influence;
- Less competition within your “warm” circle of contacts.
KPIs and metrics for successful connections
Before attending an event, you need to clearly define your goals:
- What contacts do you want to establish?
- What topics do you want to discuss?
- What do you want to achieve?
It is important to research the participants in advance and make a communication plan. Determine who exactly you want to talk to and how you can benefit from these relationships.
To understand the effectiveness of your networking, you can track:
- Number of relevant contacts (by field, region, interests);
- The percentage of responses to messages;
- The number of offline meetings organized on the initiative of social networks;
- The number of projects you were invited to thanks to your connections;
- Mentions of your name or project in other people’s recommendations.