What is networking capability? Today we will deal with another interpersonal intelligence competency , which is the ability to network. We could define it as the ability to build and maintain professional relationships that can offer support, information and opportunities both personally and professionally.
It is a key competency in today’s world of work, as it allows people to access resources, knowledge and connections that would otherwise be unavailable.
Benefits of having networking skills
People with high professional networking skills achieve the following benefits:
1. Career opportunities: it facilitates access to new job and business opportunities.
2. Knowledge exchange: it allows them to exchange ideas and experiences with professionals from different fields.
3. Support and mentoring: provides them with a support network and possible mentors who can guide them in professional development.
4. Collaborations and projects: encourages collaboration in projects and the creation of synergies between different areas.
It is interesting to have people in our network who are able and willing to take on the role of facilitators, advisors or advisors at the time and circumstances in which we need them, based on the trust they have in us.
Trust, key to networking skills
This trust will be greater if we are perceived as upright and honest beings through the content of what we transmit with our spoken or written words, by the coherence between our behavior and what we express, and by the fulfillment of our commitments.
Therefore, to be sustainable, that trust must work in both directions. People who provide us with information or advice expect reciprocal behavior. That is, we must be willing to be open, in the professional sense, to sincerely appreciate and use what we receive from our network and to give in equal measure when required.
It is important, therefore, to be generous and also to share the knowledge we can. This will increase our professional and personal prestige and generate credibility and trust.
This interpersonal intelligence competence is related to others already seen above such as communication, active listening, influence, initiative and the development of others.
HOW CAN I DEVELOP MY NETWORKING SKILLS?
Foster your interpersonal skills
Be authentic and honest in your interactions. Build relationships based on trust and sincerity. Genuine, sincere connections are more valuable and lasting. Interpersonal skills involve the ability to get along with and understand other people. Often, this can mean being open to subtle suggestions or “reading” the situation in a given social setting.
Active listening and empathy
Actively listens to others, shows genuine interest in their stories and experiences. Active listening as a fundamental tool for building strong relationships. By showing empathy, you show that you value the other person. It involves paying maximum attention to what the speaker is saying, following up with clarifying questions when relevant and necessary, and making sure you capture the essence of the conversation.
Active listening is essential for networking. Imagine, for example, that you are at a networking event and you are talking to a job recruiter. If you keep scanning the room, looking at your phone, and just nodding to the recruiter from time to time, pretending you’re listening, but not paying attention, you’re not very likely to be told about potential jobs.
Convey confidence
If you are going to a place full of strangers or acquaintances with the aim of creating professional and social bonds, trust yourself. Trust defines how confident you are in what you say, what you do (or plan to do), and your decisions.
Now, if you don’t have natural confidence, practice your confidence by doing one of the following things:
1. Maintain eye contact with the speaker.
2. Speak in a friendly tone.
3. Prepare something to discuss ahead of time so you don’t stumble over your words. Of course, this depends on the intent of your networking (e.g., if you’re going to talk to a specific recruiter, you’ll want to ask them about the company, the work environment, etc.)
Deliver value
Look for ways to offer value to your contacts, whether it’s sharing useful information, offering help, or connecting them with others. Networking must be reciprocal. By offering value, you show that you are willing to contribute and not just receive.
Get involved in events and communities
Attend professional events, conferences, workshops and participate in online communities relevant to your field. Stay present and active in your professional community. Participating in events allows you to meet new people and strengthen your connections.
Use social media
Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your industry, share relevant content, and participate in discussions. Take advantage of digital tools to expand and maintain your network. Actively participate in online groups and discussions.
Stay in touch
Don’t let the connections get cold. Keep in touch regularly, whether it’s through messages, calls, or one-on-one encounters. It is important to take care of long-term relationships. A simple follow-up message can keep a connection alive.
Be Grateful
Thank your contacts for their time, help, and collaboration. Express your gratitude sincerely. A sincere thank you can strengthen a relationship and show that you value the other person’s contribution.
“Remember to continue developing your talent to reach your best version”
