What does 'networking' involve?

Networking involves building and maintaining professional relationships, which is essential for career growth and opportunities. It centers around creating a web of contacts within your industry or field, allowing you to exchange information, insights, and resources. This collaborative approach can lead to job opportunities, mentorship, and access to information that may not be publicly available.

In the context of career development, effective networking can significantly enhance one's ability to connect with potential employers, learn about job openings, and gain referrals. The relationships cultivated through networking can lead to valuable recommendations and insights into industry trends, helping individuals to navigate their careers more successfully.

The emphasis on professional relationships distinguishes networking from other activities like searching for job postings online, participating in job interviews, or focusing solely on individual achievements, which do not prioritize the relational aspect central to networking.