Do You Know How to Leverage Networking Opportunities?

The practice of networkingis nowadays almost universally acknowledged by companies, regardless of their sector or size. After all, when employees get to know each other, interact, and work together, they increasingly begin to exchange ideas. This interaction can be very powerful, enabling positive partnerships—not only in the short term but especially in the long term—for both personal and professional life.

Some may view networking it as a relationship based solely on interest, but I do not believe that. True networking networking is much more about building connections with people where value can be generated for both sides. And how does that happen? Through building partnerships, sharing ideas and information, and even referrals for job openings or promotions within the company.

Think about it: would you recommend someone you consider lacking credibility for a position? The answer is simple: of course not. Besides not trusting the person’s work, you would also risk harming your own reputation in the future, since you would be taking—at the very least—an unnecessary risk. In other words, this only demonstrates the importance of this practice and how essential it is to seize the opportunities that arise.

It is precisely in these attempts to reenter the job market through new employment that networking networking can make a difference in a person’s life. According to data from a study conducted by Harvard Business School, over 70% of job openings are filled through contact networks, which only reinforces the need to build and nurture good relationships established in the workplace.

In this sense, those who think that exchanges should only happen with people from the same sector or field are mistaken. Whether intentional or not, this attitude ends up being very limiting because it prevents you from exploring different spaces. Keep in mind that the more diverse your relationships are, the broader your range of possibilities will be—whether for learning or for a potential career transition. You never know.

However, don’t despair thinking that you need to talk to many people at once. Believe me, the quality of connections is more important than the quantity. Therefore, I consider it essential to learn how to cultivate these relationships, which are based on trust and respect. Genuine networking networking brings opportunities and, eventually, the best outcomes for both parties.

Along the same lines, I also believe that someone will only refer you if you truly do good work and have a proper attitude. You need to be able to leave a mark and become a positive reference for people in what you do, as that can be the differentiator. Substance is required, not just appearance. With that, your long-term results tend to be better.