The larger your network, the better.

Your network is your net worth.

These are the two most quoted network propositions, the latter implicitly including the former. 

 

Your network(s) value is tied to your individual career goals, specific needs, and job search contexts. But the networks have different functions, too:

Personal networks enhance personal/professional development, provide referrals, and share information and contacts.

Operational networks are about getting the job done and are oriented toward current demands.

Strategic networks focus on future priorities and challenges and finding support for them.

 

Next, the quality of your network(s). Consider three factors: proficiency, capacity, and involvement.

 

Proficiency consists of

Competence (e.g., How competent are they in your field? What other competencies do they have that you should take into account?)

Experience (e.g., How does their experience relate to your situation/aspirations, etc.?)

Professionalism (e.g., In which field are they professionals, and what value can they bring?)

 

Capacity is about

Power (e.g., Which kind of power do they have? Financial, relational, status-based, expertise-based, etc.)

Interest (e.g., In which ways do they have an interest in you or your ideas or pursuits? How can you evoke this interest?)

Influence (e.g., Which groups or individuals can they influence? What kind of influential power do they command?)

 

Involvement is a more personal aspect, including

Receptiveness (e.g., Why are they receptive to your ideas/needs/pursuits, etc.? What ways to access them do you have?)

Support (e.g., What kind of support can you expect from them? In which forms, at what “price,” etc.?)

Relationship (e.g., What is your mutual relationship based on? Its scope, depth, or nature? What kind of strings are attached?)

 

Now, let’s get back to the scope of your network: is it true that a larger network is better?

Sometimes yes. And sometimes, no.   

Here are some questions to ponder:

Are you trapped in quantity over quality?

An extensive network does not necessarily mean a more effective one. The quality of connections –  the depth, trust, and reciprocity in relationships – can be more important than sheer numbers. Solid and meaningful connections are often more beneficial than many superficial contacts.

How much time do you use to maintain your networks?

Managing and maintaining an extensive network can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. Keeping up with numerous contacts can dilute the strength of individual connections and reduce the overall effectiveness of the network.

Have you reached the saturation point?

The diminishing returns principle suggests that adding more contacts to a network yields progressively more minor benefits beyond a certain point. Do the additional contacts significantly increase job opportunities or information flow?

Is your network (too) homogenous?

More extensive networks can sometimes become homogeneous, especially if they grow within the same social or professional circles. This homogeneity can limit access to diverse perspectives and opportunities, often the primary advantage of having a broad network.

 

Instead of focusing solely on expanding the size of the network, we should consider the quality, diversity, and strategic value of our connections.

 

While extensive networks have advantages, a limited network can offer significant benefits in specific contexts.

 

If you are in a niche industry or a highly specialized field, the key contacts are likely to be concentrated among a few specialized professionals.

 

A limited network can offer the discretion needed if you are currently employed and looking for a new job without alerting your current employer.

 

For senior executives or C-suite positions, the hiring process often relies on trusted referrals and discreet networking; a limited network of high-powered, well-connected individuals is more effective in uncovering these opportunities than a more extensive, less targeted network.

 

When seeking roles that require in-depth industry knowledge, such as consultancy or advisory positions, having a few well-placed contacts who are deeply embedded in the industry can provide critical insights, access to hidden job markets, and influential endorsements.

 

In academia, securing positions often depends on strong recommendations from well-respected scholars. A limited network of influential academics familiar with your work can be more beneficial than a vast network of less relevant contacts.

   

While extensive networks can provide a wide range of connections and opportunities, limited networks excel in depth, trust, and quality of interactions.

 

So, do you benefit more from an extensive network, or should you cultivate a limited, targeted network?

 

An extensive network is better if you intend to

• explore different career paths or industries
• gather diverse insights
• enhance your visibility and presence
• seek multiple referrals and recommendations
• look for various types of advice and resources

 

A limited network is better if you intend to 

• build strong, trusted connections
• enhance the quality of your network
• look for relevant and targeted advice and support
• maintain confidentiality and discretion
• focus on specific industries or roles

 

A final word: your network(s) require contributing, too. What do you give to your network(s)? And how can you enhance your contribution?

 

#CoachRisto

#CareerPerceptions

 

#rethink

#networks