Networking can be seen as one of two things: either people think of networking as a negative point of view of the world while others look at it as being a positive view of the world.
At the end of the day, it should not be a selfish act.
It should be a way in which you can build your brand and how you can make an impact on not only your initiatives but those around you.
Making an Impact on the World
You must have a purpose and a goal of what you are trying to achieve when you build your networks.
Then, when you network, you build the awareness of those around you and build your awareness of the opportunities to help others.
This will allow you to make an impact on the world.
Build Your Network
Building a network is important because, in essence, life is about relationships and about people.
It's about building collaborations and connections, building trust and about building social cohesion.
Humans build networks by connecting with people who have shared ideas and interests with you. Then, you integrate with their network of people who have the same ideas and interests.
You start building a community of people who have a common interest and a common theme.
You can build your network in various ways. There are organisations you could go through that have a common purpose and a common goal.
Or, if you cultivate and promote your passions, ideas and thoughts that can have an impact on the world, like-minded people will naturally gravitate towards you.
Social Media Is Important
Linking with people on social media is an essential step in building your network, no matter what age you are or what stage of your career you’re in.
LinkedIn and platforms like industry associations and not-for-profit organisations that provide an excellent opportunity to connect.
Although these relationships within your network might not be as close and personal as relationships in the flesh, they can be more along the lines of professional relationships.
LinkedIn provides the opportunity for building networks that include advisers, mentors, coaches and supporters that are trustworthy, open and honest.
These types of relationships are mutually beneficial and can be very rewarding for both parties.
Don’t Be Too Hasty
Remember, it’s important to only bring people into your network whose values align with yours.
If someone in your network goes against that, for example, through a big public scandal, people will begin to question your integrity merely by association.
The only way to ensure your reputation remains untarnished is to be crystal clear about your values from day one and articulate them throughout your networks using your actions.
Therefore, communicating your position will be much easier for you on a personal level, and more believable on a reputational level.
Key Takeaways
Take care who you invest time into developing deep relationships with. Build networking with people who share your core values, passions and beliefs.
Failure to do this will render you inconsistent in your actions and give you an unsavoury reputation.
We all have a choice regarding who we associate and network with.
Nurturing and developing your network will help you grow your relevance and, therefore, the ability to lead in the areas you choose.
The benefits of networking allow you to enhance your brand, as well as build other people's interests and ideas.
This can ensure a long term perspective and long term development of impact on your community and on your brand.