Networking Neglect: How Avoiding Connections Can Derail Your Professional Path

Hey there, Shannon here!

This week, we are going to explore how failing to network during your career can be detrimental to your overall success and career growth.

Failing to network is a career mistake that I personally have made. I am an introvert and loner by nature. Always have been. During my early college career, professional networking never occurred to me as I figured I can do this on my own. I do not need outside input or perspectives. I do not need to start making connections in the field I intend to enter. In hindsight, I was being cocky. I was young and thought I had everything figured out. I, like many others in that position and in that time in their lives, was wrong.

Mentorship is important. Professional connections are important. Outside perspectives and feedback are important. Without them, your career can and likely will stagnate and you will lose out on opportunities that could have helped with career growth and development. That is what happened to me until I realized what was causing the issue and corrected it.

Why are these things important though?

Mentorship is vital in any career path. Having mentors can provide valuable guidance, feedback, and advice for your career development. Reach out to a leader who you trust and respect, ask for their guidance and experience, and absorb as much of it as you can. You do not have to walk the exact same path as them or even take their advice if it doesn't match your specific path, but there's always something you can learn and even adapt to match your specific situation. Having a mentor is invaluable to career growth.

Professional connections can open many doors throughout your career as well. They are important for two reasons. First, many job openings and career advancements are never advertised publicly. They’re often filled through referrals and personal connections. Without a network, you may miss out on these hidden opportunities. Second, building a professional reputation often involves being known and respected by your peers. Without networking, fewer people will be aware of your achievements and capabilities, which can hinder your professional reputation and growth. Make sure that other teams, other leaders, and a broader scope of professionals are aware of who you are, what you can do, and what you bring to the table as a professional and as a person. Seek out networking events in your area. Invest in a good business card. Make a LinkedIn account and make regular updates.

Outside perspectives and feedback may be the most important element of professional networking. Living in a bubble where only your ideas and opinions exist is detrimental both professionally and personally. You do not know everything. No one does. You also likely have some blind spots when it comes to your own strengths and weaknesses. Without external feedback, you may not be aware of areas where you need improvement. Constructive criticism from colleagues, mentors, or peers can help you identify and work on your weaknesses, leading to professional growth. Routinely seek out feedback from your peers and incorporate that feedback wherever and whenever you can.

Relying solely on your own viewpoint can lead to stagnation. Outside perspectives can introduce new ideas, techniques, and approaches that you may not have considered, keeping you innovative and adaptable in your field. Seeking and incorporating feedback demonstrates a willingness to learn and grow, which can enhance your credibility and reputation. Without it, you may come across as inflexible or unwilling to improve. Failing to seek external feedback can lead to professional isolation. Building relationships and networks through seeking feedback fosters collaboration and a sense of community, which can be vital for career satisfaction and success.

Other ways that lack of networking can be detrimental are poor decision making, decreased motivation, feelings of isolation, and missed learning opportunities.

Decisions made in isolation may not consider all relevant factors or potential consequences. Diverse perspectives can provide a more comprehensive view, leading to better-informed and more effective decision-making. Positive feedback and encouragement from others can boost your motivation and confidence. Engaging with others allows you to learn from their experiences and expertise. Without this interaction, you may miss out on valuable lessons and insights that could enhance your skills and knowledge.

Professional networking isn't merely about collecting business cards or growing your list of contacts. It's about forging meaningful connections that can provide the support and momentum needed to accelerate your career to new heights. Through these genuine relationships, you gain access to invaluable insights, opportunities, and collaborations that can shape your professional journey in profound ways.

Until next week.......