The importance of networking spaces: unlocking professional growth

In a global economy where people seem to be less connected than ever, networking spaces are more needed than ever. For both senior professionals and young first timers who have just started their career, networking is key to progress and growth. Whether in the form of casual meetups or business events, networking spaces really add value by helping build relationships, sharing ideas or exploring new partnerships. In this post we’ll be covering different types of networking hubs and offering you some practical networking tips!  

Table of Contents

The benefits of networking

Knowledge sharing

“Always be learning” or “student for life” are expressions you have surely heard of. Well, networking spaces are great for knowledge sharing. If you speak to different people from different backgrounds, companies and sectors, you will surely get a fresh perspective that you would typically not encounter during your average day. Why not explore different avenues for growth by listening to others? You have nothing to lose and at the very least, you will stay updated on what’s happening around you! 

Building professional connections

This is a no brainer 🙂. Networking will help you build long lasting professional relationships and connections, or even friendships. The worst that can happen is that you’ll enhance your professional and personal life, by listening to other opinions and experiences. Furthermore, when the going gets tough and you encounter difficult times along the way, these connections will help you find your way. So, what do you have to lose?

Exploring networking hubs

 

Backtomeet harnesses our interest in connecting with others

 

If we take meetings from one set of people (those interested in us), we can get meetings with a different set of people (those we are interested in).

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Business networking events

A business networking event is a formal meet, designed to make professional connections much easier. They come in the form of conferences, exhibitions, roundtables, debates, keynote speeches and networking sessions. Yes, the networking aspect might seem a bit forced at the beginning (particularly if you’re shy or an introvert) but it’s a question of practice. The more networking events you attend, the easier it will be to establish connections with “strangers”. But remember, everyone at these events wants to connect, so don’t be shy. 

Coworking spaces

Coworking spaces have become popular networking hubs, particularly for startup founders and entrepreneurs, but also for medium and large companies. These spaces offer a great combination of shared amenities and collaborative areas, making it much easier for casual or spontaneous interactions to take place. These are called “watercooler moments”, where you find yourself having a conversation with someone you didn’t expect, in the kitchen or lounge of a coworking space. If you want to know more about coworking space, take a look at WeWork, one of the global leaders in the industry. 

Online networking communities

 

The alternative to physical, in person interactions are the different online platforms that are currently available. LinkedIn is the most relevant platform, but there are many other industry-specific communities and forums. And let’s not forget that X, Instagram, Facebook or Threads are also used by many people for professional purposes. Even though these virtual platforms are a great way of connecting and sharing knowledge, it can’t be denied that we all share a certain level of “social media fatigue”, because there are too many platforms and we simply have too many connections! It might be useful to focus on a few networks, rather than spread yourself too thin. A great example of a platform that focuses on engagement and connection is Backtomeet 🙂

Networking strategies for success

Set clear goals

You need to have specific objectives when attending a networking event or joining an online platform. What do you want to achieve? How much time do you want to dedicate to networking every day? Is there any person in particular you want to meet? What do you expect to learn? Do you have a pitch for when you meet different people and attendees? The more you plan in advance for your interactions, the more likely your network will be effective and productive.

Be genuine and approachable

Yes, they say “fake it until you make it”, but don’t try to be someone else. Be genuine and remember it’s not all about you; everyone wants to be listened to, so be sincere and approachable. Listen to others and try to support your peers. You probably have much more to offer than you think, so keep your eyes and ears open for those who might need your help! 

Follow up

Networking doesn’t end when the event ends. Make sure to send a follow-up message or email to all of those people you have met or encountered, as a means of reinforcing the connections you’ve made. It’s a shame not to do this, because the time dedicated to the event might have been wasted if you don’t express your appreciation to those you have come across. It’s much easier to be remembered if you follow this piece of advice.

Practical tips for networking

 

  • Attend diverse events: yes, you love your industry and you want to focus on market-specific events, but don’t limit yourself so much. You never know who or what you can encounter if you go out of your comfort zone. You can also diversify by exploring other event formats, such as workshops or social gatherings, instead of plain conferences and roundtable discussions. 

  • Use social media to your advantage: a great way of staying in contact with the professional connections you establish along the way is by following them on social media and interacting with them virtually. It doesn’t make sense to make a connection if you’re not going to somehow stay in contact. 

  • Join professional associations: there might be a cost involved but this is a way of investing in your career. Professional associations can offer a more “exclusive” forum with resources and knowledge that might not be available at the more open networking events. 

  • Be prepared: it would be a shame to invest time and money in an event that you end up not being prepared enough for! What are you going to say? Do you have a formal pitch? How are you going to introduce yourself to others? What will you wear? What will others wear? Do you have business cards? Is there an easy way for others to contact you? The key is to act like the professional you are! 🙂

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