The world we live in is more intertwined than ever – and this new (or should we say not so new?) reality is only becoming more common as time passes. Whereas before, our social interactions were limited to the people we knew within our respective spheres, today we have access to a universal network of likeminded (and, sometimes, not so likeminded) personalities at the literal click of a button. Gamers, bloggers, workers, professionals – people from every walk of life can instantly connect with a multitude of people without so much as breaking a sweat.

This opens up an entire world of possibilities – never before have so many, so easily, been able to exchange ideas, get in touch with people of interest, promote their skills or showcase their talents to such an extent.

Networking is a critical aspect of career success, yet many people struggle with it. It can be intimidating, especially for those who are introverted or shy. However, the benefits of building strong professional relationships are immense and can lead to opportunities for advancement, better job prospects, and even greater job satisfaction.

So, what exactly is networking, and why is it important? Networking refers to the process of building and maintaining professional relationships with others in your industry. These relationships can be with colleagues, mentors, alumni, or anyone else who can provide you with valuable information, advice, or support.

The importance of networking lies in its ability to help you expand your professional circle, stay up to date with industry trends and developments, and gain exposure to new opportunities. When you network effectively, you can:

  1. Build your professional brand: Networking is a great way to build your personal brand, showcase your skills and accomplishments, and make a positive impression on others. By participating in professional events, joining industry organizations, and contributing to online forums and discussions, you can demonstrate your expertise and build a reputation as a knowledgeable professional.
  2. Discover new opportunities: Networking can help you discover new job opportunities, either through direct referrals from contacts or by learning about open positions from people in your network. In fact, many job openings are never advertised publicly, and it is through networking that you may hear about these opportunities.
  3. Gain insights and advice: Networking allows you to tap into the experiences and expertise of others in your industry. You can gain valuable insights and advice on a wide range of topics, including job search strategies, industry trends, and more.
  4. Enhance your skills: Networking can help you develop new skills and stay up to date with industry developments. For example, you may attend professional development events, join industry organizations, or participate in online discussions and forums.

To maximise the benefits of networking, it’s important to be intentional and strategic about the relationships you build. Here are some tips for effective networking:

  1. Be authentic and genuine: People can often sense when someone is only networking for their own gain. Instead, focus on building meaningful relationships based on mutual interests and shared goals.
  2. Follow up: After meeting someone new, be sure to follow up with a quick email or message to thank them for their time and to keep the connection alive.
  3. Give before you receive: Networking is not just about what you can get from others; it’s also about what you can offer. Look for opportunities to help others, whether it’s by offering advice, introducing them to someone in your network, or simply lending an ear.
  4. Stay engaged: To maintain your professional relationships, it’s important to stay engaged and connected. Attend industry events, participate in online discussions, and make time for regular catchups with your contacts.

But, you ask, what in the name of redefined communications does this have to do with Vobi? Well, a million words (possibly more) have been said about our Vobi app – we’re sure you get it by now. Pay less, talk more, call anyone, anywhere in the world without running out of airtime – we’ve said it, you’ve heard it. What we haven’t covered, however, is the way the App is slowly redefining the way we communicate, the way we collaborate, and, most of all, the way we connect.

You see, Vobi is far more than a nifty little invention you use to save on calling costs. Instead, it’s a gateway for likeminded individuals to change the way they network for good. Through the Vobi app, we foresee a platform for growth, sharing ideas, connecting with others and the creation of communities. We envision a channel where people can thrive. Where professionals from a multitude of walks of life can get in touch and make build their network accordingly. We aim to shift the focus from “social” to “network” – in turn granting users a platform for scalable personal growth, opportunities to engage, and a universe of budding potential in their pocket.

You see, networking is a vital component of professional success, and by building strong relationships with others in your industry, you can open doors to new opportunities, enhance your skills, and expand your professional circle. So, start networking (with Vobi) today and see where it takes you!