Why is networking and lobbying important?
Internet connection, digital device (smartphone, tablet, or PC).
This unit will provide participants with general information regarding the importance of Networking and Lobbying.
LESSON:
In this unit you will be provided with both video and text information regarding Networking and Lobbying in general that will assist in building a strong foundation for the units that will follow and will allow you to understand why being able to network successfully is important when it comes to VET education.
What is networking?
“Networking represents proactive attempts by individuals to develop and maintain personal and professional relationships with others for the purpose of mutual benefit in their work or career” (Forret & Dougherty, 2020).
- There are many different types of networking but in terms of business, networking is the process of building a range of professional contacts, sharing information with them, and regularly keeping in touch.
- Networking can be formal or informal and nowadays is as likely to occur across a range of online platforms as it is face-to-face in the real world.
- Professionals use networking to expand their circles of acquaintances, to find out more about opportunities in their field and to increase their awareness of news and trends in their fields or the greater world.
- In addition to business networks, people also often network based on other common points of interest such as sports clubs, religious groups or a college/university alumni society.
Why is networking important?
- Networking is key as it opens opportunities that may otherwise not present themselves. The more you connect with people and demonstrate your expertise, the more likely they’ll want to work with you. Contacts made through business networking are also more likely to refer you to people who have a problem they know you can help to solve. As you share your knowledge with people in your industry, others will do the same for you. This will help you learn about other people’s experiences and uncover ways you can solve your own issues. In an ever-changing world, it’s also important to keep up to date with developments in your industry and the outside world and networking will help you to ensure you are aware of factors that may affect your field. Networking with people both in and outside of your specific area of business broadens your knowledge and improves your confidence, which is beneficial for your mental health.
What different types of networking activities are there?
There are many ways to get involved in business networking:
Examples of face-to-face networking:
- Trade shows
- Conferences
- Hosted meet and greets
- Business associations and other local organisations
- Workshops
- Social events
Examples of online networking:
- Facebook groups
- Meetup.com and other online directories
- Zoom or other video chat platforms
Online Quiz:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0158037X.2010.547465?journalCode=csce20
In the above article you can find research done in Australia and across Europe regarding innovation in VET.
Bohne, C., Eicker, F., & Haseloff, G. (2017). Competence-based vocational education and training (VET): An approach of shaping and networking. European Journal of Training and Development.
De Klerk, S. (2010). The importance of networking as a management skill. South African journal of business management, 41(1), 37-49.
de Janasz, S. C., & Forret, M. L. (2008). Learning the art of networking: A critical skill for enhancing social capital and career success. Journal of management education, 32(5), 629-650.
Kessels, J., & Kwakman, K. (2007). Interface: Establishing knowledge networks between higher vocational education and businesses. Higher Education, 54(5), 689-703.