Business networking has a world of positive benefits. However, with all the positives, come at least some negatives. So, without further ado, let’s start with the positives/pros in supporting business networking:
The first upward point is;
You are being active in accumulating business contacts and letting yourself be seen. Many people complain that they simply don’t know enough of the right people to help them in their career direction.
When you actively participate in business networking, you increase your chances of meeting the right people. Plus, if you’re networking right by sharing referrals, introducing people, and following up with the people you meet, the rewards will speak for themselves.
The second positive point is;
Your 1-on-1 interpersonal skills will slowly build into experts. This is a benefit that is not talked about much, but through trial and error, building great relationships will seem easy. Consider the fact that when your 1-on-1 interpersonal skills are right, you will see a phenomenal increase in the positive results you get using all other communications, for example; phone, email, etc.
third, on the optimistic side it is;
After being consistent, you will notice your own center of influence expand. If you take an active part in meeting, communicating and generally helping a lot of people, you will be appreciated and respected. When things like this happen, your center of influence grows and you will be highly respected by default.
4, on the high side is;
Networking regularly gives you the opportunity to talk a lot about your profession. You will have the opportunity to educate many people on what you do when you meet them. This situation makes you alert and more knowledgeable about your profession.
The fifth benefit of business networking is;
You are increasing your overall options considerably. As you network for better business returns, you will meet a large number of people who are not directly connected to your goals. Meeting people like this can benefit you in other ways like; finding a good plumber, helping you get hired at a new company, and any other specialists in a particular field. A personal reference usually has more merit.
And now for the alternatives or disadvantages/cons of business networks:
#1. If you are an extreme example of a socially inhibited person, going out and networking could be very traumatic for you. I’m not saying it’s something you can’t get over, but it could very well turn out to be a not-so-positive experience.
#2. You may come across various events that may not be to your liking. This is a business networking job hazard where you attend business networking events with high expectations but are disappointed by the outcome. As with anything, this is not a reason to give up, but it does happen.
#3. People in your newly found network have been as receptive as you’d like. It is very true that many people talk a good game, but in the heat of the moment, when you need them the most, they can disappoint you.
#4. A rebellious and undesirable individual can enter your life through networking. I know this is an aspect that is not discussed very often, but I have to be honest. Sometimes you can attract people through your friendly networking activities, which could result in a loss of energy, if not detrimental to your career.
And #5. Networking doesn’t work for everyone. Yes, there are some people, however rare, where networking and building relationships with different people just isn’t their cup of tea. A small minority of people will find that no matter how hard they try, they just won’t get the results they want. This is sad but it is true.
So now you see the pros and cons on both ends. I personally believe that business networks are very important and can work for most people in a positive way. Now, you have to ask yourself, “Is it good or bad?” The answer is “Good” and “Bad”. It all depends on the perspective of “you”, the reader.
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