Networking can be an essential part of your career advancement and development, no matter what career stage you’re currently in. It can help you stand out for new opportunities, get to the front of the applicant pile, and even discover new skills, certifications, or degrees that can help you reach your work goals.

In this post, we’ll discuss the importance of networking, the four most valuable networking opportunities for career advancement right now, and tips on how to be successful when connecting with other professionals. 

The Importance of Networking for Career Advancement 

You’ve likely heard advice to network if you want to progress in your career. We’ve all heard the age-old saying “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” While what you know certainly does matter, there’s no denying that social connections carry a great deal of weight, too. 

Networking can of course be an important part of receiving offers for promotions or new employment. One study found that 84% of companies believe employee referrals are the most cost-effective way to find talent. Another study reviewed over 4.5 million applications and found that referral candidates are seven times more likely to be hired than those who applied through job boards. 

Networking can help with your career advancement in the following ways:

• Generate potential referrals. People in your network can refer you to their employer and act as personal or professional references. 
• Establish real relationships. Form friendships that can offer mutual support, advice, and encouragement.  
• Gain new support and resources. Networking groups may provide access to new resources, including support like resume assessment, introductions to other professionals, or updated information on latest industry trends and changes. 
• Develop new perspectives. Exchanging ideas with other professionals can give you new insight into the work you do. 
• Discover and generate new opportunities. You may learn of new professional employment or upskilling options through networking, which may open the door for both vertical and lateral career development.   
• Build self-confidence. As you build a network of like-minded professionals, it can help you establish confidence in yourself and the work you do.  
  
  

4 Networking Opportunities for Professionals 

When you’re ready to start networking, there are four effective types of opportunities to consider, including both online and in-person options. 

1. LinkedIn 

LinkedIn is a social media platform dedicated to professional networking, and it’s a great place to start when you want to make more industry connections. Pew Research found that 30% of American adults use LinkedIn as of 2024, and LinkedIn’s data notes that seven people are hired every minute on the platform. 

You can find people in your industry or potential hiring managers and connect. You can also build your personal brand on the platform by posting thought leadership content, engaging with other members, and keeping your skill and work history up to date. 

To increase your chances of success, send personalized connection request messages that share what you have in common and say that you’d love to connect. 

2. In-Person Events 

The ability to meet in-person can make it easier to form relationships and build rapport quickly. 

Events like industry conferences, trade shows, job fairs, and training can provide invaluable opportunities to connect with other professionals. Schools and training programs may sometimes offer complementary networking events and opportunities if you’re already undergoing continued education, and your current employer may also have company events to meet coworkers or managers from other departments.

To find these opportunities, search for relevant events like “marketing conference 2024” or “Arizona healthcare job fairs.” You can also ask your direct manager if there are any networking events, conferences, or training they recommend. 

Don’t forget to think outside the box. A trade show meant for chefs and restaurateurs would be a great place for a graphic designer specializing in menu illustrations to make connections, even if they weren’t the target market for the event. 

3. Join Professional Groups 

Both online and in-person professional groups can provide outstanding networking opportunities. Examples may include:

• Your city’s local Chamber of Commerce
• Local professional groups for members of certain ages, genders, and other demographics 
• Professional industry association memberships, including local associations (such as CT Nurses) or national groups (such as the American Nursing Association) 
  
  

These groups may provide resources and advice, in addition to networking opportunities. Many online freelancing groups, for example, share rate sheets or contract negotiation tips amongst members. 

4. Your Existing Network 

Even if you haven’t started intentionally networking yet, you still already have an existing network that may include the following:

• Past teachers and professors
• Colleagues from current or previous jobs 
• Friends
• Family 
  
  

Talk to your existing network about the kind of professional opportunities you’re most interested in. You may have a friend who knows a friend they can put you in touch with.

You should also make sure you talk to your current direct manager to discuss your interest in moving up in the company. Ask where they feel you could develop more skills, or request stretch projects to build your resume. 

Managers may be able to point you in the right direction, recommending certification, training programs, or skills needed to move to the next level. They might also have suggestions for how to get started with your company’s education assistance program, if one is available.