The Importance of Networking
Not only is the tech industry broad, but it is constantly evolving and requires professionals to keep improving their skills to stay relevant and marketable. While there may be a competitive spirit among peers in the industry, developing strong networks that foster collaboration and joint learning opportunities can be a great way to advance your career. It is always beneficial to have some level of connection with other people as there are several ways in which you can support each other.
#1. Networking Provides Learning Opportunities
When you network with others in your field, you can learn a lot from each other. Everyone has something they need to learn and everyone has something to teach. Whether you’re a student or in the early stages of your career or a seasoned professional, you can be valuable to others with your unique insights, experiences and interests. You can offer different perspectives and ask or answer thought-provoking questions about your field or career. By simply talking to other people, you can also learn and share about new opportunities, events, and helpful tips and tricks to boost your productivity. You can learn about industry trends from people who are in it or trying to get into it, but you can also learn about how other people stay motivated and driven to succeed.
#2. Networking Fosters Collaboration
Having conversations with other professionals in your field gives you opportunities to share your work and skills so that others can learn about what you do. If you never share what you do with others, no one will know the true extent of your abilities, and no one will think of you when there are opportunities that you may be best suited for, such as paid opportunities, public speaking, empowerment events, workshops, and more. Promoting yourself can lead to life-changing collaborations that not only help you, but can help others around you or in your community. New business ideas, mentorships and partnerships have all been born from networking, so there is no limit on what you can do with others when you get to know them.
#3. Networking Facilitates Professional Development
Networking is an aid to professional development as you’ll have multiple opportunities to speak to other professionals like yourself or at different stages in their career. If you’re looking for promotions or new job opportunities, it is always helpful to know people who can advise you on how to prepare for the new role or connect you with the right people. If you are trying to get started in your tech career, it is helpful to reach out to people who have more experience who can review your resume, help you to consider all your options and find organizations or certifications that could benefit you.
Although networking can be intimidating, it is worth investing your time into growing your community. Strong academics and skills can get you very far in your career, but networking could expose you to more potential opportunities you might be missing out on along the way. Social media has made it easier than ever to reach out to people, engage with them and find communities that you can join to build your network. Your network doesn’t have to be large; it only needs to be meaningful to you. As the African adage goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” If you would like to be a well-rounded tech professional, but you don’t have a meaningful network, take one step to start building one today.
