No matter your career, or industry, networking is incredibly important to the success of your business. Whether it be online, or in person, creating a network that supports, encourages, and helps you succeed as both a person and a leader is something that shouldn’t be minimized. One of the key pillars to BNI is building true, lasting relationships. This is why so many of our members find success in their business, while also creating friendships that extend much further than professional gains.
Today, let’s discuss a few reasons why networking is important, and what you can benefit by investing time into cultivating strong relationships.
What is networking?
Merriam Webster defines networking as the following: “the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions specifically: the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business.”
In BNI, building relationships is more than a transaction. Networking in BNI is about cultivating mutual relationships which serve to benefit all parties involved. It is also built on trust, understanding and support. We celebrate each other’s successes and strive to build one another up in every interaction.
What are benefits of networking?
Once you understand what networking is, and why it’s so pivotal to the success of BNI, we want to highlight some of the top benefits of networking for you, and for your business.
Creates opportunities
When you spend long hours building and investing your time and efforts into your business, it can be challenging to meet new people, and expand your current network. By stepping out of your comfort zone, and actively seeking to build relationships outside of your industry, you open yourself to opportunities you may not have otherwise had.
For example, our members are connected to people from a variety of industries, which often benefit one another. In building relationships with a plethora of people, who have similar goals and values, you are not only going to create professional connections, but you will make lasting friendships as well.
Provides support
Networking with the right people will give you support and encouragement. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals will help you push through difficult times, and they will be there to celebrate you through your successes. From professional endeavours to personal wins, your network is your greatest cheerleader, and we all need more positivity in our lives.
Whether it be needing help with a project, advice on a career decision, or seeking professionals in another capacity, when you spend time creating the right network, your will always have a diverse group of people to rely on.
Builds long lasting relationships
Networking is not a quick and easy approach to fostering relationships. You need to ensure you are committed to creating connections that are real and genuine. Networking is also not a one-way street. Professional networking isn’t about what someone can simply do for you. It is built on the desire to mutually benefit one another, so that you both find success and fulfillment in the relationship.
A platform such as LinkedIn is an excellent example of how you can further cultivate your network. Social platforms, such as LinkedIn, allow professionals from all over the word, in a variety of trades and industries to connect with one another. It also opens the door for you to connect with people you otherwise may not have had the opportunity meet elsewhere.
Whether you are networking in person, or online, it is important to remember that you should always be genuine, respectful, and seek opportunities that benefit all parties.
If you would like to see how BNI would work for your business, we would love to connect with you!
