Networking: Cracking the Code to Career Success

In today's fast-paced and highly competitive job market, networking is vital for young professionals who want to advance their careers. This involves building and maintaining relationships with other experts in the industry or field, with the goal of gaining new opportunities, advice, and mentorship.

Networking can take various forms, from attending events and joining professional organisations to reaching out to professionals through social media, email, or in-person meetings. Whatever the approach, it's crucial to be genuine, approachable, and respectful of others' time and interests.

Let’s get started with some tips:

Seek Mentorship: One of the most significant benefits of networking is the opportunity to find a mentor. Someone who can provide guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your career. Look for professionals who have achieved success in your field and ask them if they would be willing to mentor you.

You can seek mentorship through professional organizations, alumni associations, or networking events in your field. This is an excellent way to connect with like-minds and gain access to valuable resources and opportunities.

Professional organizations in Nigeria include the Nigerian Medical Association, the Nigerian Bar Association, the Nigerian Institute of Management, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations amongst others.

Attend Events and Reach Out to Professionals: Attending events and conferences in your industry or related ones is a great way to meet new people, learn about the latest trends, and developments, and build relationships with potential employers or clients.

It is one thing to be in the midst of professionals and another thing to mingle with them. You will have to let go of fear and reach out to the professionals in your industry, even if you don't know them personally.

You can also offer to meet over a coffee and discuss your interests and goals where you can meet one-on-one.

Be Prepared: When attending networking events or meeting with other professionals, it's essential to be prepared.

Have a clear idea of what you want to achieve from the interaction and be ready to discuss your skills, experience, and goals.

It's also helpful to have business cards or a resume ready to share if the opportunity arises.

Nigerians will say, ‘No go loose guard oo’

Follow-up: After meeting with a new contact or attending an event, it's essential to follow up promptly.

Send a thank-you email or message and let the person know that you appreciate their time and insights.

You can also build on the thoughts you discussed to show that you were engaged and attentive during the interaction. This will make such a person more interested in your connection.

Be Consistent: Networking is not a one-time activity; it's a continuous process that requires consistent effort and engagement.

Set networking goals for yourself, such as attending one event per month, reaching out to one new contact per week, or joining a new professional organization every quarter.

By making networking a habit, you'll stay connected with your industry and continue to learn and grow.

Use Social Media: Social media can be a powerful tool for networking, especially if you're just starting in your career.

Platforms like LinkedIn, and Twitter allow you to connect with professionals in your field, showcase your skills and expertise, and learn about new opportunities.

I was discussing about this with some of my colleagues lately, and I realize how so many have grown in various capacities through being consistent on social media.

You will have to ignore the low engagements at the beginning and continue to share relevant content, engage with other professionals, build your personal brand, and you will be taken aback by how this will lead to your career success.

Networking is a potent tool for career success, by building and maintaining relationships with other professionals in your field, you can access new opportunities, gain valuable advice, mentorship, and showcase your skills and expertise.

So, take the time to network and invest in your career today!