Originally posted 3/25/22

Does the idea of walking into a room full of strangers paralyze you a bit? I am right there with you. The picture created by the term “Networking Event” plays in a loop in my mind and is not my idea of a good time.

I am a bit of an introvert, and I really would prefer not to be in and among large groups of people or even just away from home. I realize this might make being a Mobile Notary a problem, but it's something I am currently working through. I wanted to give you that context when I explain how the word, the idea, and the suggestion of Networking is brought up. NETWORK! The scariest word I hear among business leaders, owners, and entrepreneurs, and my mentors and coaches encourage this activity regularly. Still, I hear “Network,” My mind and body want to run in the opposite direction.

With all that worry and concern surrounding the idea of Networking, I fully appreciate how significant this activity is in business. I also know the idea behind the word “Network''. In the business world and our personal lives, Networking creates relationships. Does that take the anxiety out of the term for you? Perhaps the idea of Networking gets you pumped up, and it's your jam; fantastic for you! For all of us business owners, entrepreneurs, and people who work a W4 job, Networking within your community and within your field of business is important to your success.

You'll find what I found if you start researching why networking is so important. For today's blog post, I will share the Top 12 Benefits of Professional Networking, an article from the Michael Page Website and Team, and I will share their tips and summarize their explanations. After reading this blog, you're encouraged to hop on over to the article.

1. Strengthen Business Connections: Networking with each other is not about taking but sharing. It's about sharing information, referring businesses, and supporting each other.

2. Get Fresh Ideas: When we open ourselves up to develop relationships with our peers in business, new ideas and fresh perspectives will inevitably be shared, as we are not all alike. These are invaluable to you and your business or career, as they help you see outside of the box you're constantly creating in.

3. Raise your Profile: This benefit seems silly to remind us about, but the truth is, the more people who see your face and hear your name (and the more often), the better it makes your network aware of you, even when you are not right in front of them. It can keep you “top of mind,” In any industry, being top of mind will help grow your business or your career exponentially.

4. Advance your Career: Like growing your business, Networking can make you known within your industry and allow opportunities to advance and grow in your career.

5. Get Access to Job Opportunities: This benefit plays with the last two. No matter what networking you are doing or for what reason, attending regular networking events can keep you in other minds and allow for introductions to job or business opportunities.

6. Gain More Knowledge: I have to tell you from my experience that being a part of networking groups has dramatically increased my knowledge base in my industry. It has the opportunity to do that for you as well. When we expose ourselves to professionals of all levels, there is little doubt that knowledge will be shared.

7. Get Career Advice and Support: One of my favorite benefits of networking. Spending time in and around your industry gives you a team. Mentors, leaders, and eventually, friends who can help you figure out issues, and they support you in your success and difficulties.

8. Build Confidence: This is key for me. The more you put yourself out there at networking events, the better you will be at it. Not just networking events but networking with industry professionals and heavy hitters. The confidence to believe in yourself and what you do can help you grow your success.

9. Gain a Different Perspective: Seeing your industry or business through the eyes of others can give you a perspective you have not yet considered.

10. Develop Long-Lasting Personal Relationships: If you spend enough time with your networking friends, those relationships have the potential to grow and flourish. I love my network of local notaries, and we are becoming very good friends and one of the most significant investments of my time.

11. Get an Answer to Every Question: Having a solid connection and network of industry professionals will undoubtedly allow you to get any question you have answered. I have a handful of mentors I have collected over building my business. There is one; we call her the Goat (Greatest Of All Time.)Trust me, it is said with all the affection we can muster. She is my go-to when I have a question. Without fail, every single time, she has an answer. And not just an answer, but more often, the solution that I need.

12. Find a Job You Love: Networking can often lead to the perfect restaurant, perfect deal, and perhaps the perfect job. You never know the opportunities that can present themselves when you invest your time into being of/and creating a network.

These are all fantastic benefits for any part of your life, especially for your business and career. If you lean a little towards being an introvert and all of these benefits sound good but don’t make the idea of stepping out any more manageable, I found an article for you. 5 Networking Tips for Introverts by Chantel Lovall at the State Policy Network website.

So, you’re sold on networking, but you're not sure where to start. I get that, and I would love to get you started. I would first look to connect with your local Chamber of Commerce office. You can google “ Chamber of Commerce (my city)” and find your local branch. They all require some fee, but many host monthly networking events. Facebook is also a great place to look for networking opportunities. Look for groups that match your industry or business. You can find many options right in your backyard. And if you can’t, you can do what I did, start a new networking group.

Whichever networking group you find or choose, prioritize attending their gatherings. With all of the benefits of networking, how could you not?

If you are a notary in Central California looking for a network close to home, check out my Facebook group! We would love to have you join us.

Also, If you'd like to watch my Youtube video about this topic, check it out here.

Please feel free to connect with me for any questions or comments.

Jen Cooper- JKC Mobile Notary