5 simple ways to start networking and why you should
Key takeaways:
- Networking is about building genuine professional relationships, not collecting contacts.
- Strong professional connections can help you discover opportunities, learn from others and grow your confidence.
- Networking can happen both online and in person, depending on what feels comfortable for you.
- Following up and maintaining relationships is just as important as making new connections.
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 28% 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, 57% of Kiwi workers are not actively engaged in networking activities – though they’re still open to the idea of it.
Why networking matters
Networking is often misunderstood as something you only do when you're looking for a job. In reality, it's about creating genuine professional relationships that can benefit everyone involved over time.
Whether you're just starting your career, exploring a new industry or looking to develop professionally, building connections can help you learn from others, discover opportunities and broaden your perspective.
Professional networks can also provide valuable support throughout your career. The people you meet may share advice, introduce you to new contacts, recommend useful resources or alert you to opportunities you may not have found otherwise.
Likewise, you can offer your own knowledge, experience or introductions when someone else needs help. The strongest networks are built on mutual trust and ongoing relationships rather than one-off interactions.
Whether online or offline, networking is something we should all try. Here are five simple ways to start networking.
Five simple ways to start networking
How to build lasting professional relationships
Successful networking is not about collecting as many contacts as possible. Instead, focus on building relationships with people whose work, interests or experiences genuinely resonate with you. A smaller network of meaningful professional connections is often far more valuable than a large list of people you rarely speak to.
Consistency also matters. Networking should be an ongoing habit rather than something you only think about when changing jobs. Keeping in touch with people, attending occasional industry events and staying involved in professional communities can help you build relationships that develop naturally over time.
Remember that networking is about learning as much as it is about opportunity. Every conversation is a chance to gain new insights, understand different career paths and expand your perspective. Approaching networking with curiosity and authenticity will often lead to stronger, more rewarding professional relationships.
Avoiding common networking mistakes is just as important as building good habits. Read The 6 most cringeworthy networking moves to learn which behaviours could undermine professional relationships and how to make a positive impression when connecting with others.
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.
Strengthen your professional network with practical career advice on building connections, exploring opportunities and achieving your career goals.
Share your skills and experience with your network. Share your SEEK Profile.
FAQs
Why is networking important?
Networking helps you build professional relationships, learn from others, discover new opportunities and grow your confidence throughout your career.
How can I start networking if I'm nervous?
Choose networking opportunities that feel comfortable for you, such as online communities, webinars or smaller industry events. Focus on having genuine conversations rather than trying to meet lots of people.
Do I only need to network when I'm looking for a job?
No. Building relationships throughout your career can help you stay informed about your industry, develop professionally and uncover opportunities before you actively begin job searching.
What should I talk about when networking?
Ask questions about the other person's work, career journey or professional interests. Showing genuine curiosity often creates stronger connections than trying to impress people.
How do I maintain my professional network?
Keep in touch occasionally by sending a message, sharing useful resources, congratulating people on achievements or reconnecting at industry events. Small, consistent interactions help maintain strong professional relationships.
Independent research conducted by Nature of behalf of SEEK, interviewing 4000 Kiwis annually. Published July 2023.
