Is Networking Really That Important?

If I’ve learned one thing over the past few years, it’s that the secret to figuring things out is making connections. Whether it’s collaborating to succeed in a class or making a good impression on potential employers, connections are key. No matter what you do or where you go, networking always opens doors and leads to new opportunities.

Even when you haven’t seen the opportunities appear right away, they show up later on when you’re least expecting them.

Benefits of Networking

Hearing new perspectives
Discovering opportunities
Expanding knowledge
Building confidence
Branding yourself

Does networking actually work?

Fun fact: most of the jobs I’ve had have come from making connections.

My first job as a barista came from coincidently meeting the manager at a volunteer initiative where I was making cotton candy at 14 years old. She said she’d hire me when I turned 15 and she did. My second and third jobs were initiated by chatting with several customers at my barista job. They gave me referrals and the other two jobs quickly followed.

I recently signed a contract for a great position and the top company I’ve been wanting to work at for a year. How did I do this? Networking.

I met company representatives at an event, interviewed for the position, and wasn’t hired. But, I didn’t let that stop me. I attended more events, had coffee chats with numerous people in the company, spoke with people on LinkedIn, obtained referrals through networking, and then I was offered the job before I even needed to apply for the second time. They told me I got the offer because of the number of people within the company that had been advocating for me. This is why I preach networking so hard and why I know it is really that important.

How do I network?

Find your community

Don’t limit yourself to only looking for professional connections. Sometimes, the best connections come from simply exploring what actually interests you. Do you like reading? Join a book club. Interested in cryptocurrency? There is most definitely a network of people with those same interests. Even something as simple as liking dogs surely has a community for you to join.

How-to find your community:

Professional networking groups in Ottawa is a great tool to explore different local communities.

Clubhouse is a social audio app that is like live podcasts. You can join conversations where people talk live about niche subjects you’re interested in, you can make connections, and you can even start your own community or conversation.

Facebook can be used to join groups for your specific interests.

Go to events

Events are most definitely the place to meet people. If you’re a student, there are so many networking events where you can meet employers with connections to your school. However, if you’re not a student, there are still many opportunities. Attending events about things you're interested in will help you meet people with similar interests, network, and form meaningful relationships.

The pandemic also presented a great opportunity: virtual events! If meeting people in person makes you uncomfortable, there are tons of virtual events you can attend.

Explore virtual events

Events in Ottawa

Pro tip: Don’t limit yourself when looking for events. Oftentimes, the events you randomly decide to attend for fun end up bringing the best connections.

Leverage LinkedIn

If there is one social media tool that is best for professional networking, it’s LinkedIn. If you’re interested in a specific company, an industry, a position, or even someone’s personal experiences, LinkedIn is perfect for sending a connection request and asking for a virtual coffee chat. This is a wonderful way to learn and also leave an impression.

Check out my how to get started on LinkedIn for beginners blog for tips on leveraging LinkedIn.

I know networking can be intimidating, but it is so beneficial that it’s worth the initial discomfort you may feel. The more you network, the more you’ll feel comfortable and confident. You can practice almost anywhere at any time. Try speaking with more people during your daily interactions, getting out of your comfort zone, being more open, and opportunities will come your way.

Did I miss any networking tips you think would be useful to share? Want to join the conversation? Contact me to suggest any blog topics or to simply practice networking.