Andrew Mina

I think it is really interesting how networking can be so polarising. Whether it be an event, a promotional launch, a community of practice gathering or even using LinkedIn. Many of us have a clear idea of what they think of networking and I believe it is not always positive.

This could change though if:

• we had a clear idea of what networking is,
• what is the purpose of networking is, and
• what the outcomes could be if we were intentional about it!

But maybe, just maybe, if we saw networking as apart of our professional development it could completely transform how we embrace it, participate and engage with it. Networking could be a chance to practice your pitch, describe your organisations USP, or even improve your skills speaking with new people, aka strangers!

I really appreciate networking events and I go in with the aim to meet at least 3 new people and learn 3 new things.

Finally, HR and L&D have a great role in this area:

1. HR – get out to networking events and for two reasons: often you’re the last to stick up your hand to attend an event or training and secondly, the sector is changing and developing and this is a great way to stay up to date, and
2. L&D – networking events are a great way to have informal learning take place. Share with your colleagues when you learn about an event it might just be a game-changer for them.

To take this one step further is for those participating in a networking event share ‘lessons learned’ with their colleagues.

How could you use networking as a professional development opportunity?