5 simple ways to start networking and why you should
Networking doesn’t have to be uncomfortable, although the idea of it can feel uneasy or unnatural to many of us. Maybe networking makes you think of awkward small talk with people you don’t really know.
In fact, research for SEEK has found 38% of people say they don’t take part in networking because it makes them uncomfortable or nervous.
But networking is really about building relationships with people who share your professional interests. And the benefits go beyond that – 67% of employers say they’d be more likely to hire someone who’s been referred by their professional or personal network.
Despite this, 62% of Australian workers are not actively engaged in networking activities – though they’re still open to the idea of it.
Whether online or offline, networking is something we should all try. Here are 5 simple ways to start networking:
Essentially, networking can provide opportunities and open doors that you may not have considered. It can also give you a confidence boost when you do start looking for a new role or new opportunity. So, if you haven’t started yet, try some of these steps and find a way to make networking work for you.
Independent research conducted by Nature of behalf of SEEK, interviewing 4800 Australians annually. Published July 2023.
