You've probably heard the saying, "It's not what you know; it's who you know." To some extent, that's true. Getting the right recommendation or having a connection in a particular department can make all the difference in your career. As a result, it's crucial to know how to create your internal network.
What Is Internal Networking?
Internal networking involves forming professional relationships with people inside your organization. These coworkers may be in the same department, a similar one, or a completely different one you want to transfer to.
You can connect with coworkers in a similar role or a superior who may serve as a mentor. It's also a good idea to network with subordinates, as you never know when those connections will come in handy. Giving everyone a chance to connect can also portray you positively, while focusing only on people in a higher position may negatively affect your reputation.
Why Is Internal Networking Important?
Networking is vital when you want to shift roles within your company. You'll need respectable people who vouch for your work ethic and qualifications. Recommendations from inside the department you wish to apply for can have a heavier weight, giving you a better chance of getting the job.
You may also get a heads-up when a department decides to hire. Getting your application in quickly puts you in front of hiring managers first, boosting the probability of getting a spot.
An internal corporate network can also help your team. If you run into an issue on a collaborative project, you can utilize your network for resources, such as getting inside information on timelines.
There are also benefits to networking within your team, primarily if you work remotely. The closer you are to team members, the better you can work together. You'll also have a valuable external contact if one of your coworkers leaves for another company.
Internal Networking vs External Networking
External networking is essential in business and offers many of the same benefits as internal networking. However, there's an understanding that external professional relationships are transactional. Both parties have something to offer, or the connection isn't worthwhile.
Internal networking may start as friendliness and grow into a mentor/mentee relationship or coworkers simply helping one another. When employees work together, the company benefits, which is why businesses should facilitate internal networking.
Pros & Cons of Internal Networking
There are many benefits to business networking:
Strengthens workplace bonds
Boosts productivity
Creates opportunities for advancement
Improves communication among departments
Increases employee retention
Of course, like everything, internal networking also has its downsides. The biggest one is the time commitment. Building relationships takes time and energy. Once you've established a connection, you must maintain it with regular check-ins. In most cases, you must do this on your own time or between your job duties.
However, some companies support internal networking with mixers and other events, alleviating the initial burden. Additionally, the return on investment is usually worth your effort.
How To Do It Well for Corporate Success
How can you internally network successfully? These tried-and-true tips can help you get your foot in the door:
Participate in volunteering and other corporate events.
Introduce yourself to new hires.
Be friendly, courteous, and authentic.
Research a department before you reach out.
Take advantage of social media.
Once you start a conversation, don't monopolize it. Listen more than you speak. Additionally, be mindful of your contact's time and responsibilities.
Building a business network takes time but can be helpful when least expected. Remember that while internal networking is a professional endeavor, you're speaking to individuals, and everyone wants others to see them as people rather than assets.