How to Network Proactively

The phrase “Networking is digging a well long before you need to drink water” emphasizes the importance of building relationships and connections before you actually need them. It’s about investing time and effort into nurturing meaningful connections with others, not just for immediate gain, but for long-term support and opportunities.

Practical examples can help illustrate this concept:

Career Advancement: Imagine you’re currently content with your job and have no immediate plans to switch companies. However, you attend networking events, and industry conferences, and engage with professionals in your field. Months or even years later, a new job opportunity arises that aligns perfectly with your career goals. Thanks to the relationships you built through networking, you have a network of colleagues and mentors who can vouch for your skills and recommend you for the position.

Entrepreneurial Success: You are an aspiring entrepreneur with a brilliant business idea, but you lack the necessary funding or expertise to bring it to life. Through networking, you connect with seasoned entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors. Although you don’t currently have a venture, you consistently engage with these connections, seeking advice, sharing your ideas, and showing genuine interest in their endeavors. When the time comes to launch your startup, you have a group of people who already believe in you and are willing to invest in or support your venture.

Educational Pursuits: You’re a student diligently attending seminars, workshops, and university events. You actively engage with professors, classmates, and guest speakers. Years later, you may want to pursue advanced studies or seek recommendations for a prestigious job opportunity. Your established network of mentors and colleagues becomes an invaluable resource.

Networking involves consistently investing in relationships and maintaining a genuine interest in others, regardless of immediate personal gain. It’s about building a well of connections that can provide support, knowledge, and opportunities when needed. Like a well that sustains you with water during dry spells, a strong network can support you during challenging times and open doors to new possibilities. So, start digging that well today, and nurture your connections for a brighter and more fulfilling future. Who knows, it may not even be you who needs to drink the water, but people related to you.

Adeolu Akinyemi