Networks In Networking: The Value Of Building A Network

Within the popular saying 'your network is your net worth' lies the power of networking. But even more so, networking can transcend our sense of material worth to something that's bigger than us.

What I meant by that is the power of human connection. This I believe is the basis of networking.

In the professional world, networking is often seen as a necessary evil. Many people shudder at the idea of attending events consistently to exchange business cards and make small talk with strangers.

Like myself, they may think that networking is only for outgoing extroverts or smart opportunists who want to finesse others for their own gain.

However, these are only aspects of it that we encounter. In reality, networking is much more than that.

Beyond the superficiality, I view it as a way to build meaningful relationships with like minded individuals that share our passions and values. Sometimes, this could be potentially life-changing for the better.

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Tangibles And Intangibles

What is a network?
According to the dictionary, it is an interconnected group of entities. These entities can be individuals or anything else as far as they can interact with each other. A network is a system that allows its members to exchange value with each other.

Albeit, not all value is the same. Some can be tangible and verified objectively such as money,
goods or even information. And others are intangible and can't be quantified. Examples include knowledge, relationships and happiness.

In the formal world, networking is often seen as a way to create or access tangible value. The reason being that tangible value is easier to identify and communicate than intangible value. What I appreciate about tangible value is its easy and reliable convertibility into other forms of tangible value.

For example, if I network with potential clients, I can create tangible value through offering a product to them. If they end up buying from me, then I can convert that value into money, i.e from one tangible value(product) to another(money).

However, focusing only on the tangible value of networking often limits our understanding and appreciation of the true potential of networking.

Networking can also create or access intangible value that can have a profound impact on our personal and professional lives.

A good example is interacting with like-minded people with same interests or values as our own. Through the exchange of ideas and impressions, a relationship is formed that can provide social support, boost our emotional intelligence and foster personal development.

Nowadays, anyone can network with inspiring individuals who have achieved success or impact in their fields. I've been lucky enough to get a reply and chat back and forth with individuals who I look up to on social media.

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In a way, this is a form of accessing intangible value through learning from their experiences and insights. These insights can be quite helpful when we experience similar challenges on our own journey.

The main point is that intangible value may not be as visible or quantifiable as tangible value, but it is equally or even more important for our overall success.

What Is The Value Of A Network?

The value of a network can be viewed from two perspectives, individual and collective. For each individual, the value of a network depends on how much benefit or usefulness they can derive from it.

This too can vary depending on our needs or preferences. Some people measure the value of a network by the tangible results or outcomes that they can get from it, such as money.

For others, the value of a network may be measured by the intangible benefits or experiences that they can gain from it, such as knowledge or built relationships.

The value of the network collectively depends on how well it functions as a whole.

In my view, a valuable network is one that has a relatively good number of members who are diverse in their backgrounds or perspectives. Each providing quality and relevant information or value to each other. While also having a strong and trusting relationships amongst themselves.

This is what I aspire to either build or find. The latter seems easier.


Thanks for reading!! Share your thoughts below on the comments.

Posted Using LeoFinance Alpha