Is your net worth the only important aspect of your life or is networking equally important? Read more to find out the answer.
We had a pretend networking event during our Professional Development class and even though it was just a demo or practice session, it made me realize the social aspect of networking we have lost the past year due to the Pandemic. A lot of us have stopped networking eagerly as there are not many events to go to because of the restrictions imposed around the world. We may have lost the social aspect of networking with people live and face to face but we can definitely still keep networking and growing our circle by the help of technology. For the past two years I have networked with people through platforms like LinkedIn and have joined various virtual events such as ‘Hospitality Tomorrow’, ‘World Travel Market’ and Arabian Travel Market.
The title for this blog is inspired the quote “Your Network is your net worth” by Tim Sanders. What this quote really means is that your ability to network with people and build long lasting relationships is equally important to your success in life along with earning money and having a net worth (Gale, 2013). I like to find people that are in the same industry as me because it is easier to connect with them since we share a common background and similar interests. I have become familiar with how a professional workspace functions ever since I have started working and I have also come to realize that if I am to establish and maintain a successful career, I need a network of likeminded and strong headed individuals just like myself.
An experience to remember..
The best networking event that I have ever been to was Arabian Travel Market 2019. Back then I was interning at a travel technology firm. I was very excited to be a part of the representing team at the exhibition. I made sure to dress as professionally as possible to look professional and mature but I still felt intimidated by the older people around me. I remember feeling overwhelmed and nervous when I accompanied our CEO to a short introductory meeting with the General Manager of Atlantis Hotel. This experience helped me overcome my fear of starting a conversation with someone in a higher position and I learnt how to behave with people who are older and more experienced than me. I became a good listener and only said something if it actually made sense. The conversations between the CEO’s were well articulated and informative but the background noise from the event made it difficult for me to hear some things. After the meeting I realized that I was sitting a little far away from them and should have just moved a seat closer and maybe then I would not have missed hearing some things.
Overall the meeting was beneficial for my personal development and it was not the only thing the CEO focused on. He also let me accompany him to other important meetings with existing clients and introduced me to his close friends from the industry. Professional networking is not as easy as it seems and the biggest challenge in this structure is that it takes time and effort (Harris, 2019) Towards the end of the event, I was exhausted and tired. I could not comprehend the reason for my tiredness until I realized my social energy was drained and it was okay to feel like that after talking to so many people in one day.
Importance of Networking in my life
“ I believe that just like loyalty, networking is also a two way street. I do realize that If I choose to include these people in my professional network, I am by default a part of their networks as well.”
For future networking events, my action plan would be to practice an elevator pitch of 30 seconds about myself which will be interesting so I can easily introduce myself to people without feeling intimidated. I will carry my business cards with me so I can exchange it with the people I meet and stay in touch with them even after the event is over.
I believe that just like loyalty, networking is also a two way street. I do realize that If I choose to include these people in my professional network, I am by default a part of their networks as well. For example, If I ask a friend for a favor or some help, she will expect the same from me in the future. Networking does not always mean to have a give and take mindset but it does help people find new opportunities and achieve a sense of belonging.
I recognize the value that these people will bring into my life in propelling my career forward. As such, I am hopeful that my network will one day become my net worth and will allow me to handle the responsibilities of a career with diligence and practicality.
Who are the people in my network?
College Professors
In the picture: (L) Nimrah (R) Professor Tiina-Maija
I have been very lucky to have studied the course Workplace Communication with her.
Class Mates/ Friends
In the picture: (L) Huda (M) Nimrah (R) Tania
So glad to have these two amazing girls by my side as my friends and classmates
Work Colleagues/ Mentors
In the picture: My current team at Priohub under Emirates Group. This is all of us at a familiarization desert safari trip.
References
Gale, P., 2013. Huffpost - Why Your Network is Your Net Worth. [Online] Available at: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/why-your-network-is-your-_b_3375954 [Accessed 16 03 2021].
Harris, E., 2019. Resultlist Consulting - Pros & Cons of Business Networking- Waste of Time or a Gold Mine?. [Online] Available at: https://www.resultist.com/blog/pros-cons-of-business-networking-waste-of-time-or-a-gold-mine [Accessed 18 03 2021].
Comentarios