Network your face off: Why networking is essential

Kathryn Minshew, founder and CEO of The Muse and The Daily Muse, began a piece for the Harvard Business Blog Network with this sage advice: “Network Your Face Off.”  The truth and value of this statement cannot be underestimated.  Here are 5 reasons why networking is essential and why connections matter.

1.  The larger the network the larger the salary

A recent study of 6,000 executives in over 3,000 firms found that the more connections an employee has, the greater the salary.  Specifically the study found that a 50 percent increase in network size accompanies a 3.8 percent increase in salary with respect to the average.

2.   Networks beget jobs

A survey conducted by The Adler Group found that 46 percent of active candidates and 49 percent of passive candidates found employment thanks to networking.  Similarly, a study conducted by Banque de France and the University of Toulouse noted that half of all jobs in the United States are filled through personal contacts.  ABC News cites an even higher number – according to ABC News, 80 percent of jobs are landed through networking.

3.   Networks bring opportunities

The opportunities networks can bring include: partnerships, invitations to events, introductions, and invitations to give talks and presentations.  In short networks bring opportunities that benefit and feed your career, professional development, and personal interests.

4.   Networks make you smarter

Knowing what is happening in your field and industry is vital.  When you have a strong network you are more likely to be “in the know” than those who do not have a strong and active network.

5.   Networks make you happy

Minshew writes: “Networks are powerful, and when done right leave you surrounded by a core of individuals who are all rooting for your success and happy to help you.”  So true.

Networking is essential.  Get out there and build your network.