Networking has always been one of the most influential and determinative steps in the development and success of people all over the world, beginning in prehistoric times. Still, it is important to note that in today’s world ways of networking are vastly different from what might have been the case a few decades back. For advanced-level graduates and University undergraduates, understanding and leveraging these changes is needed for career growth and personal development.Top of Form

History of Humans and Networking: From Prehistoric Age to Digital Platform

The act of human networking is therefore not a modern idea but can be deemed to have its roots from prehistoric times. Since ancient times they have always relied on associations to access communal resources, knowledge, and other opportunities such as exchanging commodities, knowledge, and resources. These early networks set the foundation for the complex social and professional networks we see today. In ancient times, people gathered to build monuments and celebrate rituals, which encouraged social connections and cooperation. Trade routes like the Silk Road connected diverse cultures, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies. These interactions were the early forms of networking, establishing connections that were necessary for survival and progress.

Traditional Networking: Lessons from Our Forefathers

In the past, networking was primarily face-to-face. Our fathers and grandfathers built their networks through community events, professional associations (Lion’s Club etc), and personal referrals. These interactions often took place in local clubs, business meetings, and social gatherings, where trust and relationships were built over time. For example, introductions made by mutual friendships often led to job opportunities and collaborations, highlighting the effectiveness of these traditional networking methods. In the older times, many big corporates used this method to recruit employees.

Modern Networking: social media and Subgroup Communication

Modern networking environment has evolved due to the invasion of information technology. Facebook, LinkedIn, and other social networks, and groups that unite people based on their interests have become inevitable tools to create and maintain relationships. Unlike traditional methods, these platforms allow individuals to connect with a global audience, share their achievements, and access a vast array of opportunities from anywhere in the world. Various social networks such as LinkedIn, X, and Facebook groups represent professional communities where people share experiences, ideas, and even discuss recent trends. Some of the popular online community groups include GitHub for developers, Research Gate for academicians and Meetup for any area of interest. Additionally, networking with other experts and industry members can be conducted through online conferences and webinars, which are not limited to a specific geographic region, thus expanding the scale of networking.

Benefits of Using Social Networking Platforms for Your Career

LinkedIn, as well as other social media tools, have numerous advantages in terms of career advancement. They help you build a connection with the like-minded professionals globally, thus making you global and give you an access to learn about the trends and practices in the industry from the leaders. Using these platforms for job searching and sharing updates can be helpful to find new job openings and can also be used to request referrals from your connections. Moreover, one may also join different groups, attend webinars, and actively engage in the discussions that take place on these platforms, thus gaining more experience and knowledge to improve one’s professional activity. Updates and sharing of content help one to be seen more in the industry and features such as the ‘Open to Work’ feature of LinkedIn lets employers know that one is on the job hunt. It also creates a strong profile where you can gather many endorsements and recommendations, which will help to show your areas of specialization to potential employers.

Why It is Essential to Develop Your Own Brand?

Employment opportunities are scarce in the current world and as a result, creating a good image is extremely important for a candidate. Personal branding is the presentation of self and image that one associates with in the public domain. When you share your expertise, accomplishments as well as your beliefs on the social profiles, you can create a perception of yourself as a specialist in your area. Promoting personal branding may help enhance your visibility to employers and collaborators, emphasize the specific strengths and achievements, and demonstrate the interest in continuous learning. To embark on the building of your personal brand, you need to identify your core competencies, beliefs as well as career aspirations. Post content that is relevant and well-written, and that demonstrates your knowledge and passion for the subject matter: Like and comment on other posts; participate in discussions; and offer support to your connections. It is also important to note that the information that you share in the social networks should be appropriate for the image that you want to portray to the public, maintaining a balance between personal and professional content.

The Role of Professional Networks in Recruitment from Job Recruiters

Professional sites such as LinkedIn are commonly used by the recruiters to identify and assess potential candidates. These platforms help them search for the desired candidates with certain skills and experiences, assess professionalism based on the profiles, and confirm credentials by endorsements/recommendations. Recruiters also interact with the quiet candidates who are not actively searching for new job opportunities but can be willing to consider them. Of course, a filled and polished profile has a greater chance of getting noticed by a recruiter since it indicates a person is prepared for a new job. Closely interacting with your network and industry, or even creating content yourself, can also show your thought leadership and expertise to potential employers, which would make you a much more appealing candidate.

Conclusion

Importantly, “networking”, in its traditional and modern ways, is crucial for advanced level graduates and undergraduates. The ability to connect, share, and grow within professional circles can significantly impact your career progress. Using the social networking platforms, creating a personal brand, and knowing how recruiters employ the platforms will help you to search for the right jobs and gain the positions that you desire. In a world that increasingly values digital interaction, mastering the art of networking can set you apart and propel you toward success.

Chathura Ganegoda (BSc (USJP), MCIM (UK), MBA(UOC))

“Lead the world to New Dimensions.”

LinkedIn – @Chathura Ganegoda

Email – Chathura.d.ganegoda@gmail.com

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