Networking basically means putting up or coming up with a viable social system that when implemented will generate new value-adding social relationships of likeminded persons who seek to make a competitive niche for themselves in the work environment.
Networking in a nutshell works in the same principal just like how computer networking works where a set of computers are linked together to a joint server system. In our case we are more interested in networking as a form of increasing one’s power, this means the main focus lies in networking as a social capital.
Social capital refers to the value of having social relationships in respect to cooperation as a means of getting confidence to pursue collective economic results. For a person or a firm to be able to effectively cover a wider scope in form of market base without having a substantial capital base, then social networking becomes the next best alternative.
An effective social networking strategy can empower a person in a number of ways. To begin with, networking ensures that a specific subject gains valuable connections with the right people in the industry that he or she intends to work after clearing with formal education.
For instance, a person who is interested in working with the banking industry can enhance his or her chances of working in such an industry by ensuring that he relates effectively with the people who have major influences in the decision making process of the banking industry. This way, a person ensures that his or her chances to gain a rewarding employment opportunity in the desired industry are enhanced.
Networking also enhances a person’s power by ensuring that the confidence of the said person is boosted by the virtue of his working with people of great repute in an industry (Aydogan & Yiu, 2008).
As noted by (Castiglione, Deth & Guglielmo, 2008) people learn new skills through relevant interaction which ensures that there is a continuous transfer of knowledge from one experienced party to the lesser experienced party. This continuous transfer of knowledge ensures that a person’s worth is enriched thus empowering him or her.
In the new era of technological based social networking, social capital can be enhanced by ensuring that one contributes to relevant social forums such as e-boards that are in the relevant area of specialization (Steinfield, Ellisona & Lampe, 2008).
This strategy can be an efficient form of expanding networks as one can get to know many actors in a field of interest. If the quality of the information sent is excellent, then the contributors tend to recognize one’s efforts, which can be beneficial in the process of enhancing a person’s social network.
References
Aydogan. N. & Yiu P., C. (2008). Social capital and business development in high- technology clusters: an analysis of contemporary U.S. agglomerations. Springer
Castiglione, D., Deth J, W., & Guglielmo. W, (2008). The handbook of social capital. New York: Oxford University Press
Steinfield, C., Ellisona N., B. & Lampe, C. (2008). Social capital, self-esteem, and use of online social network sites: A longitudinal analysis. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology. 29(6). 2008. Pp. 434-445.