Have you ever heard that phrase: “So-and-so only got that job because they have connections?” The phrase, which often sounds ironic, reflects an increasingly current reality: networking has become an essential tool for professionals in all fields.
However, a less-known but equally powerful concept is gaining ground in the national market: netweaving. Although both focus on creating and strengthening connections, their approaches differ significantly and can impact your career in complementary ways.
According to a study cited by the Global Mentoring Group, research conducted by the Harvard Business School revealed that more than 70% of job openings are filled through networks of contacts. These data highlight the importance of cultivating and maintaining solid professional relationships.
However, in Brazil, networking is still underutilized. A survey of 650 executives conducted by the Institute of Executive Content Development (IDCE) revealed that many Brazilian professionals do not fully exploit the potential of networking in their careers.
For Ana Tomazelli, a psychoanalyst and President of the Institute for Research on Feminine Studies and Multiple Existences (Ipefem), the ability to build and cultivate strategic relationships has become an indispensable competitive advantage. “Today, business opportunities come not only from innovation but from the people you associate with. Networking is the new asset of the entrepreneur,” says Tomazelli.
Networking X netweaving: what are the differences?
Networking is the process of building and maintaining professional relationships aiming at the exchange of information, career opportunities, and market growth. It is often associated with corporate events, communities, fairs, conferences, and digital platforms like LinkedIn.
The essence of networking is objective: to identify influential people in your field and position yourself as a relevant professional. However, to be effective, it requires a balance between sharing knowledge and showing genuine interest in others, which often happens in a time of need, like losing a job. Who hasn’t heard “I need to reactivate my network” in a difficult moment?
On the other hand, netweaving is a more subjective approach initially for establishing connections. “Here, the main focus is not what you can gain, but how you can serve others with what you have. It’s about connecting people in a meaningful way, acting as a network bridge where you facilitate interactions that can benefit third parties,” Ana concludes.
In netweaving, reciprocity emerges naturally. By promoting the growth of others and building relationships based on real empathy and generosity, you end up being remembered as a reliable and collaborative reference, besides not being seen as a self-serving person – in the sense of only seeking others when needed.
“Although different, the two tools do not need to have exclusive approaches. On the contrary, they can work in synergy. Networking helps increase your visibility and access opportunities, while netweaving deepens relationships and creates a network sustained by trust and future support,” explains Tomazelli.
For example, a professional can use networking to meet people at an event and then adopt netweaving by supporting these individuals in connecting with other contacts that can add value to their journeys. This combination balances the focus on personal development with altruism, generating benefits both in the short and long term.
How can networking and netweaving be used and implemented in your career?
To implement networking, start by participating in events, communities, and interacting on platforms like LinkedIn. Identify people who share similar professional interests and stay in regular contact with them. Practice your personal presentation to make a good impression and show genuine interest in the achievements and challenges of others.
As for netweaving, look for opportunities to be helpful to your network of contacts. This may include introducing two colleagues who can benefit from a mutual connection or sharing useful tips and resources. Show empathy and be willing to collaborate voluntarily, which can create a cycle of reciprocity and strengthen your position as a reliable and supportive professional.
Combining these practices in your routine not only enhances your career advancement opportunities, but also fosters a more collaborative community where relationships are built on trust and collective growth,” emphasizes Ana.
While networking opens doors, netweaving strengthens the foundations of these connections. Incorporating both practices into your professional daily life not only increases your chances of success, but also contributes to a more collaborative and humane work environment. After all, in the business world, it is relationships that lay the groundwork for sustainable growth.
