The following post is part of a series of blogs written by TazWorks™ Partners who will be attending TazWorks LIVE! To learn more about the event, click here.
Spring generally kicks off the conference season in the background screening industry. Therefore, spring is a great time to remind folks that networking is an essential skill (maybe even the most essential). I have gotten better at networking as I have gotten older, but if there is one piece of advice I could bestow upon my 25-year-old self, it would be to become a much better networker.
Networking is a crucial aspect of personal and professional growth in today’s interconnected world. Whether you are a student, a job seeker, or an established professional, building and maintaining a strong network opens a plethora of opportunities and contributes significantly to your success. The importance of networking and how it can positively impact your career and personal development cannot be overstated.
Some of the major impacts include:
- Opportunity Identification: Networking provides a platform to meet people from diverse backgrounds. Through these connections, you gain insights into various fields, industries, and career paths. Opportunities often arise through these connections, whether it be job openings, collaborations, or projects that align with your interests and skills.
- Knowledge and Skill Enhancement: Engaging with a network of industry experts allows for the exchange of knowledge and skills. You can learn from others’ experiences, gain insights into industry trends, and stay updated on advancements in your field. If you are facing a challenge at your company, chances are that someone else in the industry has faced the same challenge. If you are fortunate enough to attend an industry conference, engage with everyone you meet. It is a small industry, and you never know who might be the key to your future success.
- Career Advancement: Many career advancements result from networking efforts. Employers often prefer hiring candidates who are recommended by someone within their network. Similarly, promotions and career growth are often facilitated by having a strong professional network that supports your endeavors and vouches for your capabilities. Again, the background screening industry is not that big. Try to have a positive impact on everyone that you meet at conferences. You never know who may help you land your next job or might be your next boss.
- Building a Personal Brand: Networking allows you to showcase your skills, expertise, and unique qualities to a broader audience. As you interact with professionals in your field, you build a personal brand that can enhance your reputation and credibility. A positive personal brand can attract opportunities and make you stand out in a competitive job market.
- Mentorship and Guidance: Networking provides access to mentors and experienced individuals who can offer valuable guidance. A mentor can share insights, provide advice, and help navigate challenges in your career. Building strong connections with mentors can be instrumental in your professional development.
- Entrepreneurial Opportunities: For entrepreneurs, networking is essential for finding potential investors, collaborators, and customers. Building relationships within the business community can lead to partnerships that fuel the growth of your venture. Networking events and business forums are crucial for establishing these connections.
- Personal Growth and Support: Networking is not just about professional connections; it also contributes to personal growth. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who share similar goals and values can provide emotional support, motivation, and a sense of belonging.
After you get back from your conference, don’t just leave all those business cards you collected in the bottom of your backpack. Shoot a quick email out to each person you met, letting them know how nice it was to make their acquaintance and following up on any other items that you may have discussed. It takes two minutes to send this email, and it will help you stand out from all the other folks they met.
In conclusion, networking is a powerful tool that goes beyond the exchange of business cards and LinkedIn connections. It is about building meaningful relationships, fostering a community, and leveraging the collective knowledge and resources of your network. As you invest time and effort into networking, you are not just advancing your career but also contributing to your overall personal and professional development.
