Benefits of Professional Networking

1. If you want to maximize your success, professional networking is essential. In the world of big business and among those who are upwardly mobile, effectively expanding one's professional network is a core component of the success plan. Why?

2. First, the bigger your dreams and goals, the greater the number of people it takes to help bring those goals to fruition. Do you think Facebook could have arrived where it is today without a sizable and accomplished team? Sure, Mark Zuckerberg was able to get the company to a certain level, but many other people with various connections and networks were needed to bring his initial vision from its humble origins to the sophisticated multi-billion dollar company we know today as Facebook.

3. Second, connecting with the right person or persons could eliminate hundreds or thousands of wasted hours trying to figure out things other people already know the answer to and could explain to you very quickly. None of us has the time or energy to know everything, and obtaining key information in an informal and efficient manner could dramatically save time, effort, and cost. However, be careful not to abuse your professional network relationships. There are times when it fine to obtain "free advice," but there are also times when you should pay for that advice. If people feel they are always on the giving end of the relationship, they will start withholding information or disconnect from you entirely. For tips on the Dos and Donts of Professional Networking, see Robert Half's Networking Tips.

4. Third, implementing big dreams usually requires a team, and the earlier you build your network and strengthen your reputation among them, the easier it will be to build your team quickly. Even if the people in your network are not directly part of implementing your dream, they may be able to help you identify potential team members or provide you with other valuable relevant information.

5. Fourth, you can have tremendous fun connecting with the members of your professional network and exchanging information at the same time. In many instances, these relationships can grow from being mere acquaintances or colleagues to deep and lasting friendships. These more informal but competent discussions transform seemingly arduous tasks into less burdensome ones.

6. The four benefits identified above are just a few of the benefits of professional networking. The effect of being part of a strong professional network is that it can help to maximize your success and make your success journey more efficient and effective.

7. The following video from Forbes Magazine also provides some helpful views on the benefits of professional development, providing 7 Reasons Professional Networking Can Be a Professional Development Bootcamp.