July 17, 2020, by Shweta
The Power of Networking
The pandemic isn’t over and the resulting economic destruction is undeniable. Depressing start to a blog, right? But what if the pandemic – and its impact on virtual services – has given us something valuable and timeless? With more time on our hands and a global boardroom at our fingertips, the current situation has pushed professionals to rely on virtual networks to learn, grow and progress. I have, for a long time, believed in and parroted on about the power of religious networking. If you haven’t dabbled in extending your online network, there is no time like the present to begin. Here are some of what I believe to be its major benefits.
Additional access to opportunities
Especially considering the move to embrace digital workspaces, there are so many wonderful opportunities that have become easily accessible. But you must go out there and find them! Networking can help you open doors for yourself by introducing you to peers and professionals who can recommend courses, classes, projects and other opportunities. These make great additions to your CV, helping you stand out from the crowd in what’s set to be a harsh job market. More importantly, it will help you learn and grow!
Reassessing your career goals
You might think that your current place on the professional ladder is as high as you could go. Or perhaps, you believe there aren’t many paths that divulge off your road. Networking is one thing, but utilising it is a whole other ball game. It can be extremely eye-opening to assess the goals and journeys to one’s professional standard. This might even inspire you to explore new avenues. It’s never a bad thing to know all your options but this is only possible if you meet people who have taken the road less travelled.
Another resource library
Networking through LinkedIn (and lately, Twitter) has helped me access journals, publications, websites and mentoring services that I would never have discovered myself. A reliable network can act as a secondary resource library, providing you updated information on the latest trends in your field.
Confidence booster
With so much negativity in the world, it can be difficult to hone in on your successes. A strong network can be such an inspiring, motivational and positive place. The opportunities and intellectual conversations gained will add to your mental repertoire, giving you confidence in tackling future professional scenarios.
It’s a healthy distraction
2020 has proved to be an absolutely disastrous year on many accounts. In fact, there has been an established rise in addiction, eating disorders and mental ill-health during the pandemic. To many health professionals, this comes as no surprise. After all, boredom and trauma make for a destructive pair. Growing your network, engaging with educational content and peer-learning can serve as healthy coping mechanisms, offering a distraction from the constant barrage of bad news.
“No man is an island” may be a cliché but it’s a constant reminder of the importance of collective growth. Channel the same social energy into your network. I guarantee you’ll benefit from it in some shape or form.
Until next time,
Shweta
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