Why you must build Professional Networks

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Networking is establishing and maintaining informal relationships with people whose acquaintance or friendship could bring advantages such as job or business opportunities. Professional networking is a critical skill that is required for succeeding at workplace or in business. Building a strong professional network doesn’t happen overnight; these relationships have to be cultivated over time.

How does professional networking help?

1. It helps to know how your job fits in the broader organizational context.
2. You gain insight into the organization culture.
3. You come to know about the industry developments.
4. It helps in gaining willing cooperation of others.
5. It helps in knowing about the existing opportunities within the organization.
6. Networking may aid in finding a mentor.
7. It improves chances of getting recommendations and referrals.

How to network effectively at work?

1. Use your networking time to network with superiors, with peers as well as with subordinates.
2. Be genuinely interested in other people.
3. Give honest, sincere appreciation.
4. If you have differences of opinion with others, then disagree agreeably.
5. Remove opinion bias or negativity bias. Do not impose your opinion on others.  Avoid making others defensive.
6. Balance the exchange of information.
7. Extend help. Use reciprocity to strengthen, lengthen and rejuvenate professional ties.
8. Build credibility.
9. Communicate with clarity and conciseness. Be a good listener.