Instead of better glasses, your network gives you better eyes.

— Ronald Burt

Networking is an essential aspect of any career, and this is particularly true for those pursuing a career in digital marketing. With the industry constantly evolving, networking helps keep you informed and up-to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and strategies. It also provides opportunities to connect with potential employers, mentors, and peers who can offer valuable insights and advice.

Networking can happen in various forms, from attending industry events and seminars to participating in online communities and social media platforms like LinkedIn. By building and nurturing these relationships, you can create a supportive network of professionals who can provide guidance, refer you to job openings, and even collaborate with you on projects. One of the most important benefits of networking is the opportunity to learn from others' experiences. Digital marketing professionals have a wealth of knowledge and expertise that can help you grow and develop in your career. By engaging with others in the industry, you can gain insights into different approaches to marketing, discover new technologies and tools, and learn from successful campaigns.

One of the most impactful networking experiences I've had as a student was attending the digital media marketing seminar series organised by my professor, Wendy Greenwood. This series brought together industry experts and professionals to share their insights and expertise. Not only did I learn a lot from the speakers, but I also had the opportunity to connect with other students and professionals in the field.

The speaker that resonated with me was Blair Roebuck, Vice President of Marketing Science at Valtech. Her article highlighted the importance of using scientific methods to inform marketing decisions. Roebuck emphasised the significance of gathering data, conducting experiments, and analysing results to make informed decisions to drive success. She also stressed the need to use various methods, from traditional market research to more innovative approaches like neuromarketing, to understand consumer behaviour comprehensively. Roebuck argues that a scientific marketing approach is essential for driving growth and achieving long-term success.

In addition to Roebuck's insights, one of the key takeaways from my own experience is the power of networking. It's not just about making connections but also about building and nurturing relationships. By staying in touch with my contacts and offering value through insights, resources, or friendly conversations, I've established a strong network that has been instrumental in my career.

The key benefit of networking in the digital marketing industry is the opportunity to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies. By connecting with guest speakers on LinkedIn, I've gained valuable insights into emerging platforms and techniques, allowing me to stay ahead of the curve and remain competitive in the job market.

Another benefit of networking is the opportunity to find mentorship and guidance. By connecting with seasoned professionals in my field, I've gained valuable advice and insights that have helped me navigate the challenges of a career in digital marketing.

Based on my own experiences, I've found several beneficial networking practices that can assist people in expanding their networks and boosting their careers.

To begin with, it is critical to approach networking with sincerity and authenticity. People may easily detect insincerity, so be genuine and likeable in your relationships. It is also vital to follow up with folks after meeting them. Attending seminars and symposiums is also an excellent method to network and obtain in-depth knowledge about developing trends and technologies. Joining industry-specific associations and organisations is another approach to broadening your network. These organisations provide a wealth of information, events, and networking opportunities to help you expand your network and knowledge. Lastly, volunteering for marketing association groups of your respective institution can provide valuable hands-on experience while also helping you grow your network.

In this day and age, networking has shifted from solely face-to-face interactions to include online connections as well. Platforms like LinkedIn provide opportunities to connect with professionals in your field and engage with their content. Sharing your thoughts and experiences is crucial to building your network, and it requires consistent effort and dedication. Setting goals, devising a plan, and staying active within your industry's community are key steps in establishing a robust network that can benefit you personally and professionally. We need to remember that networking is an ongoing process and requires patience and persistence. By investing time and effort into cultivating genuine relationships, you can open doors to exciting new opportunities and expand your horizons.

In conclusion, networking plays a vital role in the life of a digital marketing student. Attending events like the digital media marketing seminar series organised by my professor, Wendy Greenwood, has been instrumental in building my network and staying ahead of the curve in this ever-evolving field. In addition, by creating and nurturing strong relationships with others in the industry, I've gained valuable insights, mentorship, and opportunities that have been invaluable in my career.