Networking - What Is It?

Networking….When you hear that term?  What does it mean to you?

I asked this question in a private group, and the answers varied.

“Connecting with others in my industry and learning from them.”

“Something that provides incredible value and yet causes us introverts to shake in our boots.”

“Connecting with people who can give positive feedback or support throughout your job search or current job.”

“Talking to other people who can then potentially help you down the road.”

All of the above are true!  

I'd like to add that many people use networking when they need something (like a job lead). Think of networking as building and developing relationships because it's the human thing to do.  It's been my experience that if you nurture relationships, people will often bring opportunities/ideas/leads to you before you ask.

Networking can be defined as using your contacts to achieve a personal goal.  Watch this clip of a Chicago Senior whose quality of life was improved by a citizen networking on his behalf.

What does networking mean to you?