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What is Networking?
Networking is the process of creating and maintaining a network of mutually beneficial relationships that can be useful for personal or professional goals. Darcy Rezac, author of the book "Connections Are Everything," emphasizes that "Before you find the princess, you have to kiss a few frogs!" This means that not all connections we make will be useful. However, it is important to continue expanding your network by working on the quality and quantity of contacts.
The foundation of this process is the six degrees of separation theory proposed in 1969 by American researchers Jeffrey Travers and Stanley Milgram. They claimed that two people can be connected through no more than five intermediaries. This means that just six social connections can lead you to anyone, from a local entrepreneur to a world leader like Elon Musk.
The Importance of Networking
The primary goal of networking is to build strong and long-lasting relationships with people who may be helpful in various life situations or in business. Although this process is most commonly found in the business realm, its principles are also applicable in everyday life.
Networking allows for quick resolution of diverse issues. For example, you might receive free legal advice from a lawyer friend or get a job through a recommendation from an acquaintance. In turn, these people may reach out to you for professional advice or assistance. In a business context, networking addresses several key tasks:
- Expanding Opportunities: The more business contacts you have, the more opportunities there are for business growth. Each participant in the business community has unique knowledge, experience, and connections that can be beneficial for your development.
- Addressing Staffing Issues: Connections help in finding jobs or qualified employees. Research conducted on the LinkedIn platform shows that 85% of job openings are filled through networking.
- Finding Partners: Networking allows you to find sponsors, investors, and other partners willing to support your business.
- Access to Experts: Through networking, you can quickly connect with experts and obtain the necessary information.
- Motivation for Growth: Interacting with successful people inspires and encourages personal and professional development.
Types of Networking
Networking can be classified according to various criteria, including communication goals and behavioral models.
By Communication Goal
- Personal (Social): Establishing connections to achieve personal goals, such as finding friends or like-minded individuals.
- Business: Building business relationships for business development and experience exchange.
These formats often overlap: personal connections can evolve into business partnerships, and vice versa.
By Behavioral Model
- Positive: People who seek to be helpful to others create strong connections and support.
- Negative: Communication based on selfishness does not lead to long-term relationships.
- Mixed: Mutually beneficial relationships based on the principle of "you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours."
However, experts have differing opinions. For example, Darcy Rezac argues that the principle of "you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours" is not true networking, but merely transactional relationships. Meanwhile, Keith Ferrazzi emphasizes that networking should be mutually beneficial; otherwise, it loses its essence.
Conclusion
Networking is a powerful tool that can significantly impact your life and career. Establishing valuable contacts and maintaining relationships with people can open new horizons and opportunities for you. Develop your network while keeping in mind that sincerity and reciprocity are key components of successful networking.