Networking is one of those career concepts that has been floating around for decades if not centuries. After all, the idea that it’s not what you know but who you know can often have some truth to it.

Traditionally, networking consisted of going to events with the sole purpose of making connections within your industry. While this version of networking still exists, the past few decades have brought with them some new forms of networking.

The Covid-19 pandemic opened us all up to a new world of online networking that still has relevance today. Plus, as hustle culture continues to lose popularity and young generations are on the lookout for more authenticity at work, the soulless, transactional networking events of the past are making way for events that focus more on making genuine, lasting connections.

To find out more, we spoke to leadership expert and founder of the networking community for women in leadership, The Successful Leaders’ Collective, Rebecca Ann about how networking has changed and how you can start making connections that really matter.

Is networking still important today?

First of all, just how important is it to network these days? According to Ann, networking may have changed, but making connections is actually more  valuable than ever.

“Networking is more important today in a highly digitised age,” she says. “Connection is one of the fundamental needs of humans. It helps us maintain balance, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.” 

Because many of us now work remotely outside of the traditional office, it’s actually more important to be making new contacts.

“Today, with more of us working remotely and online meetings, we are having less connection outside of our work, what is often referred to as the water-cooler effect; where employees gather around a water cooler (or with a cup of tea) in order to socialise and share information informally,” she says.

Networking can be a great way to resolve this issue.

How has networking changed?

What exactly has changed about the way we forge professional connections in the past few years? Well, one of the key differences is the way we are approaching networking.

“Networking used to be seen primarily as something to advance your career or part of your business development requirements,” Ann says. “But now, networking also fulfils the need for connection. It is as important to build a strong network professionally, providing support and advice as well as helping advance your career and opening up collaborations, as it is in our personal lives.”

Practically, networking went online during the pandemic. Today, both online and in-person events are regularly organised by organisations. Ann recommends seeking out both forms of socialising.

“A lot of networking moved online during lockdown and has subsequently stayed online,” says Ann. “While it is beneficial to opening up spaces, it is not as powerful as in-person networking. You make stronger connections in-person and gain more from the social interaction. It can also build your confidence quicker as it is pushing you further out of your comfort zone.”

What are some little-known networking strategies in 2023? 

Ann’s main tip is to keep your networking as versatile as possible.

“While looking for online communities and events has its benefits, do not overlook in-person events,” she says. “Sites such as Eventbrite or Timeout list both online and in-person events.” 

She also suggests branching out and attending events that take you out of your comfort zone.

“If you want to take your networking to the next level, choose an event that may not be something you would normally attend,” she says. “This not only takes you out of your comfort zone, you are expanding your horizons and it can lead to some unexpected collaborations and connections.”

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