Dear cybersecurity professional, you have obtained relevant industry certifications and leveled up on your technical and soft skills. It’s time to elevate your career with professional networking. Debunk common networking myths which suggests – it’s only extroverts, it’s self-serving or you need a large network to be successful.
Creating social connections through networking is an essential part of your cybersecurity career journey. It can single you out when new job opportunities arrive or move you to the front of the applicant pile. What you need a professional network for and the composition of people in your network could change over time. However, there is no denying that at every stage of your career, meeting and getting to know the right individuals who can assist you, and who you can help in return remains vital.
Now, if your desire to be known or noticed by the right group of people has been nonexistent or fallen to the wayside, no problem. This article seeks to motivate you to reevaluate the potential impact professional networking can have on your career with these three reasons below.
Expanded Opportunities
Several studies and research have shown that many organizations see referrals from personal and professional contacts as the most effective way to source talent. A study by aptitude research indicated 84% of companies agreed with this. Similarly, Pinpoint’s Analysis of 4.5 million job applicants indicates that referred candidates are seven times (7x) more likely to get hired as compared to candidates who apply on job boards. Again, a LinkedIn Survey indicates that, 85% of jobs are obtained through networking.
Further more, the research cites cybersecurity as one of the industries with the highest percentage of jobs filled through referrals. It sits along with financial services, architecture, environmental services and insurance. Hiring referred candidates is cheaper and faster. Organizations save themselves the cost of publicizing job openings, candidate screenings and numerous interview processes.
What makes professional networking important is, it creates trust and rapport between you and whoever you are connecting with. Consequently, this influences the decisions of recruiters and hiring managers. They are more likely to go with the recommendations of colleagues and peers they have known for years instead of taking a gamble on someone they have never met before.
Knowledge Sharing
Job opportunities and career advancement aside, professional networking presents a unique opportunity to refine your thoughts and generate new ideas. By connecting with like-minded people, you begin to gather information relevant to projects you may be working on or are passionate about. This insight gives you new perspectives to overcome challenges.
In addition, knowledge sharing offers solutions and guidance for future and present tasks. It’s an avenue to exchange industry best practices and stay informed on the latest industry trends. With this information, you can create relevant business leads and partnerships.
Lastly, professional networks are a good avenue to get answers to all your questions. The larger your network, the more likely someone in your circle has the solution to your question or knows someone who does. In the unlikely event that no one does, you will still obtain a different perspective to your challenge. This can help bring insight in a way previously not thought of and help overcome every hurdle.
Long Term Success
A huge aspect of professional networking is about helping others. This helps to build the foundation for a mutually beneficial long-lasting relationship. It is important to create strong bonds and connections when you can strengthen and contribute to others’ success. This makes it relatively easy for people to come to your aid when you need it.
What’s more, we can all do with a bit of encouragement and support from time to time. A strong network can be a safety net to fall on in times of professional crisis and setbacks. The support and encouragement of people who empathize with you in times of trouble can go a long way to soften your burden and lead to potential paths of restoration.
Finally, establishing and maintaining good relationships results in trust and reliability. Consequently, this generates credibility and a good reputation. Long lasting professional relationships often generate into personal friendships and relationships which has no known boundaries. Successful networking with peers, colleagues, clients and vendors can end up in many fruitful ventures far beyond the workplace. Your next recreational privilege or political appointment could come from your professional network.
Build Networks
Even as talented cybersecurity professionals, we need more than just technical skills to truly succeed and make an impact. It’s time to build strong professional networks. It’s time to be excited about creating and maintaining meaningful professional connections. Prioritize professional networking and make it an essential tool in your career arsenal. You will undoubtedly reap the benefits of career advancement, insightful information and long-lasting relationships.