1. It increases business connections

Meeting like-minded people in the same or similar industries introduces you to others with similar goals. Sharing ideas and solutions with others can help you achieve your career goals and provide evidence of your expertise. A network becomes a pool of resources you can turn to to solve problems or exchange ideas. As a bonus, networking can produce lifelong friendships.

2. You find inspiration

Sharing challenges, experiences or goals with others allows for an exchange of ideas or insight. When others offer input it may result in an influx of new perspectives not considered before. When you're the one offering advice, others may see you as knowledgeable or reliable, which builds your reputation and increases the chance that others might turn to you in the future.

3. You are visible

Being visible isn't about showing up at every event, it's about demonstrating that you are a reliable and supportive member of your profession. As you network effectively, you become a familiar face who is easily recognized. People may want to get to know you, giving you an opportunity to showcase your skills and discuss what you have to offer. Being visible increases the chance you'll stand out as a candidate, especially if you're looking for new job opportunities.

4. It enhances career interests

Networking advances career interests by introducing you to people who can provide advice for career advancement like proofreading a resume or cover letter or practicing interview questions. Or, you may meet mentors in the same industry who can offer advice on asking for a raise or promotion.

5. It creates job opportunities

In some cases, available jobs aren't listed on a company's careers page and require inside knowledge. Your networking relationships might inform you of unadvertised job openings or even refer you. Be sure to let your network know if you're looking for a new job so they can offer chances for career advancement or personal growth.

For people who run their own business, networking can expose you to new clients or business investment advice. If you're doing the hiring, networking might provide the ideal candidate.

6. You know more

Networking creates access to new and valuable information, especially when it comes from a wide array of knowledgeable people. You may hear about new developments or learn techniques others are using in your industry. Try pursuing contacts you can learn and grow from to stay ahead of your competition.

7. You find career advice and support

Meeting people with common challenges may provide valuable suggestions or advice for an approach you hadn't considered before. Networking can introduce you to mentors who can provide professional critiques and help you achieve your career goals.

8. You build self-confidence

Networking boosts self-confidence and develops social skills. Striking up conversations with people you don't know lets you grow to become self-assured and comfortable. Forming business relationships can strengthen other office, professional and personal relationships by developing people skills.

9. You might consider a different approach

Sometimes it is difficult to see a problem, especially if you've tried to find a solution for a while. Turn to your network to help you look at the situation from a different angle. Fresh eyes may see an alternate solution or help you overcome roadblocks. Asking your network for opinions or advice conveys trust and helps to develop long-term relationships.

10. You get answers to questions

Networks can help answer tough questions and form action plans to overcome a hurdle or meet a benchmark. Asking industry-related questions might provide information on new business trends, or you may hear an industry tip on a new piece of cutting-edge technology. Asking questions yields answers that might give you an advantage over your competition.

11. You may find personal solutions

Your network is valuable in aspects other than business. Perhaps you plan to remodel your bathroom in the spring and a networking event introduces you to a reputable contractor.

Your network is a resource for people who can provide services to you personally and hiring them can boost your professional relationship.

12. You develop long-lasting relationships

Networking introduces you to like-minded professionals who may also share your common interests. Interacting with peers or industry professionals can often help you develop significant relationships for sharing goals and aspirations. Your network may introduce you to people with whom you form deeper friendships where you can support each other professionally and personally.

13. It has positive health effects

Forming bonds increases your mental and physical health. As you build relationships, you establish a sense of worth and value. Providing advice to others and helping them succeed can give you an emotional boost. Relationship building requires several soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, that strengthen each time you network.

14. You can follow your dream

Networking is an opportunity to find a job you'll love. You may meet people who are hiring for the ideal job or offering an internship or apprenticeship. Your network may alert you to new job opportunities or refer you to hiring managers. Be sure your network knows what you're looking for and what you bring to the job.

7 types of effective networking opportunities

Happy hour networking meetups

Happy hour networking events are popular and effective networking opportunities. These meetups create a more relaxed atmosphere. Happy hour events can be a good way to meet new people in general. The casual environment may make it easier to introduce yourself to strangers and make polite conversation.

Industry-specific speaking engagements

Industry-specific speaking engagements provide multiple benefits. These events are an opportunity for you to learn from an expert within your industry. Many of these engagements are even specific to a specific topic or department you work in. These speaking engagements also provide you the opportunity to meet similar professionals and learn from your peers.

Seminars and conferences

Seminars and conferences allow you to learn new skills while you meet with other professionals. These may be multiple day events, and they may provide you with a better opportunity for you to meet people from other places. If you travel to these seminars or conferences with your workers, this may also help strengthen your working relationships.

Roundtable events

Roundtable events promote discussion among peers. These forums help facilitate create ideas and encourage participants to share knowledge with one another. Roundtable events may provide you with new ideas while you make new connections.

Higher education lectures

Many colleges and universities invite experts and leaders from a variety of leaders to speak. As an added benefit, many of these events are very affordable or even free to attend. If you live near a college or university, monitor their schedule of events to ensure you don't miss any exciting lectures.

Mixers

Mixers are casual events in a variety of settings. These events often include professionals from different backgrounds. This provides you with an opportunity to meet with people you may not have otherwise met.

Informational interviews

A company-specific informational interview offers benefits to both you and the company. You have the opportunity to practice your interview skills and learn more about a company, and the company learns more about you as a potential candidate. These are low-stakes opportunities to create connections. However, consider bringing your updated resume or business card in case the interviewer wants to learn more about you.