Although I’m an introvert, and social interaction can sometimes bring on anxiety or leave me feeling drained, I’m a huge advocate for networking. Yes, really!
If you're a freelance professional or entrepreneur, you might feel like you only network because there's no other option. That mindset can easily affect your energy, and the way you connect with others, causing you to show up with little enthusiasm or genuine interest.
But there are some surprising, often unspoken, benefits of networking that might just shift your perspective. Here are three that have personally made a big difference in my journey, and they might inspire you to embrace networking with a little more curiosity and intention.
“Everyone should build their network before they need it.”
1. It’s Good for Your Mental Health
We often think of networking in purely professional terms, but it actually plays a powerful role in emotional wellbeing too. Micro-interactions, those brief but positive exchanges you have at events, can boost your mood, ease feelings of isolation, and even improve your overall mental health.
As you begin to see familiar faces at different events, something wonderful happens: you feel more grounded. That growing sense of familiarity helps reduce social anxiety and creates a sense of belonging, something that’s vital, especially for those of us who work alone most of the time.
Networking event organised by Women Connect. ©Leticia Gaidon Bradford Photography.
“Networking is more about farming than it is about hunting. It’s about cultivating relationships.”
2. It Can Lead to Real Friendships
We’re living in an age where loneliness is quietly becoming an epidemic. Networking offers a way to step out, meet new people, and over time, find those who truly resonate with you, not just professionally, but personally too.
Genuine connections often start from shared interests or values. What begins as a quick chat at a coffee stand or a laugh over an awkward group activity can grow into meaningful friendships. And as your network expands, so does your circle of support, encouragement, and inspiration.
Networking event organised by Women Connect. ©Leticia Gaidon Bradford Photography.
3. It’s a Goldmine for Learning
Beyond the business cards and elevator pitches, many networking events are also learning hubs. From insightful talks and panel discussions to spontaneous conversations that spark a new idea, there's always something to take away.
“Everyone you’ll ever meet knows something you don’t.”
You never know who you’ll meet, a fellow creative, an experienced entrepreneur, or someone with a fresh perspective that challenges your thinking. These interactions can offer new tools, unexpected resources, or simply a shift in mindset that propels you forward.
Networking doesn’t have to mean selling yourself or chasing leads. It can be an opportunity for connection, growth, and even healing. The next time you walk into a room full of strangers, try shifting your intention from “What can I get?” to “Who might I connect with today?”
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Thank you for reading.
Bye for now.