Building Professional Networks: Experience, Learning, and Long-Term Value

In the modern workplace, the function of networking has moved beyond the transactional level of job search and into the realm of constant learning, self-confidence building, and self-identity as a professional. This article will seek to discuss the function of professional networking through the lens of reflection and experience, using the author’s engagement with digital media, academia, webinars, and the wider web as a framework for understanding the function of constant and curiosity-based networking. The discussion will touch on the importance of networking as a function of knowledge sharing, flexibility and adaptability to changing standards of professionalism, and the building of self-confidence as a communicative function. It will also touch on the importance of ethical and reciprocal-based networking as a function of long-term self-sustaining professionalism. The article will position the function of networking as a key and constantly evolving function of professionalism.