"Networking is not about just connecting people. It's about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities." -- Michele Jennae.

Your professional network can be useful in many facets of your job. The most obvious manner is by giving out leads for potential new jobs. Having a professional network also has the following advantages:

1. Finding out about a job opening

Your professional network can help you find a new job if you're looking to leave your current one or have already quit and are looking. The people in your network can advise you of any job openings in your sector that they are aware of and can equip you with any pertinent corporate knowledge.

2. Improve your standing

It is critical to be visible to others when advancing your career, from coworkers to potential employers. By establishing business contacts, giving your expertise on subjects you're familiar with, and offering your distinctive perspective on various business sectors, networking events will help you elevate your status within the community.

3. The Reciprocity Rule

In its most basic form, professional networking is about sharing and mutual assistance. If you give someone advice or create a beneficial introduction for them, they are much more likely to do the same for you in return. Social psychologists refer to this behaviour as The Law of Reciprocity.

Therefore, the more you can do to support your connections in achieving their objectives, the more they will want to do the same for you.

4. New Perspective and Ideas 

Networking gives you fresh insights and ideas that can help you advance in your profession - it gives you viewpoints and ideas that you may not have considered previously. It's also extremely helpful to speak with folks who operate in fields other than yours because they can bring whole new views. 

5. Suggestions and Assistance from others 

You shouldn't only network if you're seeking a new job or for personal benefit. The goal of networking professionally is to find like-minded individuals and develop meaningful connections with them. This might help you create a network of allies that will be beneficial to you in your profession. Whether it's about a specific work issue or your own professional development, our network can provide you with advice. 

Regardless of where you are in your career or what stage you are at, networking will be beneficial to you. Make sure you stay in touch with your network on a regular basis, even if it's just to send a quick email or a WhatsApp message to see how they are. 

 As a network is more of a long-term endeavour, it is impossible to predict when it may lead to an opportunity, but it is never too late to begin establishing one.