Why Networking is Vital

So the network went down today at work, so while I was waiting for IT to figure out the problem I started reading an article titled How to Network in a New Millennium, by Boni Sivi. The article discusses some practical points for building a network that I think are worth repeating here since I can't find the article online.

1. Find an organized way to keep track of your network. File your business cards and hang on to e-mail addresses
2. Don't think you have a network? Start building one. Think about who you know that does what you do, then when you are struggling with an issue at work ask them for advise.
3. Maintain your network. Once you have started to develop a list of contacts keep in touch with them, as Sivi says in her article, "we live in a very mobile society."

Still not convince you need a better network? Here are a few yes or no questions to ask yourself:

• The job I currently have allows me to use all of my skills and encourages me to develop others.
• I am the position (assistant account executive, account executive, manager) that I have worked for and deserve.
• I have many sources for acquiring information to get my job done in the most effective way possible.
• I am making a fair amount of money for the work I do considering the hours I put in, the education I have, and the commitment and loyalty I bring to my job.
• I have the exact job I want in the industry I prefer to work in.

If you answered yes to all the questions don't worry about networking, but if you answered no to any of them it might serve you well to start building your network.