What is Networking and how is it used?

Answer 1

Networking must be the most often used buzzword of the past decade. Everyone tells us we must network to get ahead in our careers. We must network to hear about new job offers. Network - Network - Network. Just what is networking anyway? According to Webster's New World Dictionary, a network is a "group, system, etc. of interconnected or cooperating individuals." Networking, therefore is the use of this group or system to achieve some sort of end result. As it is used in regard to careers, the end result of networking is career growth. As a matter of fact, many human resources professionals view it as the leading contributor to career growth, and who among us would turn down a way in which we can make our career grow? Networking is not a way to get jobs, as commonly believed. It is a way to make contacts. These contacts may eventually lead to job opportunities. They may also help you find new employees when you are in a position to hire. These contacts may be a source of information about an area in which you are unfamiliar. You know one of your contacts specializes in this area so you can go to her for information. Your network is made up of almost anyone you've ever met. Of course not everyone is part of your active network, but each person has the potential of leading you to other contacts. The relations within your network are bi-directional. In other words, one hand washes the other. Don't hesitate to offer support as well as ask for it. Thanks to: http://careerplanning.about.com/od/networking/a/networking.htm