8 benefits of growing your network

Effective networking provides many incredible benefits including the opportunity to build long-lasting relationships. If done correctly you can reap great rewards such as getting a job that hasn’t even been advertised yet!

Below we outline eight critical benefits of growing and strengthening your network, and the effect that it could have on your career (and your personal life).

The benefits of growing your network

1. Spark new relationships

This is what most people think of when the word networking is mentioned. A huge benefit of networking is building and establishing your connections. Everyone has a story, their own journey, and a whole network of their own. Use networking as an opportunity to get to know someone new. You may be very surprised what a small world it is. For example, your new contact is best friends with the HR Manager of your favourite healthy snack brand.

2. Form friendships

Establishing common ground with a new contact is the first step to forming a friendship. The more work, communication, and interest you show, the more likely you are to become friends. Be sure to make the feeling mutual.

3. Build your reputation

Making a positive impression will help you build your reputation. This can help with building a personal brand (more on this in week 2), make you more memorable, and help you stand out against your peers.

4. Build your career

Get in front of your prospective new employer and make your first impression. Perhaps drop in that you have applied for one of their open vacancies, or that you would love to be considered for any future opportunities. In addition, you might also like to connect with existing employees and learn about the business and find out what’s it really like to work for your favourite brand? Position yourself to be front-of-mind when your dream job comes up!

5. Gain support and advice

Networking can allow you the opportunity to seek out free, valuable advice. Share your story, your ambitions, your knowledge, and you’ll be surprised how many people want to help you!

6. Strengthen existing relationships

Networking also provides you with the opportunity to build on relationships you already have. Strong relationships are key for recommendations, and references.

7. Gain and share knowledge

Learn and keep learning! Whether you’re talking to the Administrator of your favourite wellness company or the CEO of an investment fund, there is so much new information you could gather. This may be anything from office dynamics to business strategies. It could be finding out who the hot new wellness company on the block is. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or share your opinion on matters.

8. Access personal information

Talking to people is the best way to learn about them. You could be surprised how much you have in common with someone. Perhaps you both attend the same boutique fitness studio or share a love of dogs.

These things weigh heavily when it comes to building your relationships, and of course, makes conversation flow so much easier!

Top tip: If you have a bad memory, try writing a note about each person you meet in your phone contacts. This could come in handy when following up in the future.

None of these benefits are siloed. They feed into each other and build on one another, ultimately allowing you to reap huge rewards that could impact your career.