There is a saying that goes, "Your network is your net worth". In this digitally-ruled world where everyone is looking to become the next Elon Musk, a properly nurtured professional network can help you stand out among your peers. Networking usually includes sharing information or ideas with new people and building relationships with them along the way, and as a fresh graduate, you will often need useful contacts as much as your degree.

The importance of networking is endless. The information shared and the relationship formed between the people involved is often mutually beneficial and allows for mentorship opportunities for youngsters, while also allowing veterans to learn from their successors. Here are some of the more noteworthy points to consider when building a network as a fresh graduate:

Networking allows you to gain first-hand knowledge

Networking is a fantastic way to learn new things and get ideas from people who know the best industry practices. It allows fresh graduates to learn more about their field of interest from experts in the same field. Aside from the knowledge gained from your degree, you will appreciate the first-hand knowledge you gain as well. Growing your network grants you connections with like-minded people with common interests, leading to the gathering of a wealth of knowledge over time.

A vast network of knowledgeable, interconnected contacts enables access to valuable information. It also broadens your scope of opportunities to receive sound guidance from professionals who know what you want. As a result, it's good practice to actively stay in touch with your contacts and discuss recent developments to expand your knowledge. The best way to gain competency, in these cases, is to accept the fact that you don't have it all figured out and approach every networking opportunity with an open mind.

Networking helps you to build long-lasting relationships

Once you start networking, there's no turning back. Networking is the stepping stone, and best initiated during your university days. The main objective is to build a solid and lasting relationship with people. That is where the genuine value of networking is at, as it can lead to meaningful relationships with people you admire - not to mention the instant access that you will receive to relevant advice and guidance whenever you require it.

Keep in mind that networking requires a long-term commitment. You need to make sure that you are in it for the long run. Even as a fresh graduate, make sure to keep relevant contacts with people from your university and high school. It is also vital to provide support to your contacts when they need it. Otherwise, you'll be perceived as someone who only takes but never gives back. Such an image will hurt you in the long run. Building a good rapport is of the essence, as it can make or break your relationships with your peers.

Networking enables you to increase your visibility

Once you begin working on building your network, you will start getting noticed by people who work in your industry. While your degree will certainly help you land your job, being visible to your network can help you climb the corporate ladder, as people want to interact with those they see often. You can increase your visibility by taking part in university club meetings and social events, as you will be exposed to more people.

Additionally, increasing your visibility in professional spheres will allow you to stand out in front of recruiters, as they are always scouting for talents to join their ranks. This is where being in university clubs or keeping in contact with event organisers can help. Remember to maintain visibility within your network to stay relevant in the competitive job market.

Networking allows you to get more meaningful opportunities

Ever wonder why that friend of yours is making waves in his career while you're stuck in a rut? Chances are that your friend has been networking from an early part of his student life and has been making connections ever since. As a result, he has been getting referrals in his work life to aid him in his career progression. Even if your degree will be your path to employment opportunities, relevant contacts can help out a lot more.

Don't worry, as you can start networking from today to reach your full potential and meet people from different walks of life. The key here is to get started. There are many ways in which you can build your network. You can attend professional networking meet and greets, seminars, fairs, club gatherings, online conferences, or even join voluntary organisations that work for the welfare of society. All these initiatives that you take to step out of your comfort zone will propel you to go further in your professional career, as you meet new people and mingle with them.

As you meet more people, you will gain more perspectives, not to mention being able to relearn plenty of things that you probably didn't question before. In this case, having the right mindset can help you to become more approachable and let others know about what you bring to the table.

Final words

So how do you start networking? The truth is that networking requires a lot of effort and doesn't come naturally to most people. Therefore, you need to put in the extra effort to get yourself out there and converse with people.

As dreadful as networking may seem, it is equally rewarding, if not more. So why not start now?