Have you ever heard the phrase: "So-and-so only got that job because they have connections?" This phrase, which often sounds ironic, reflects an increasingly relevant reality: networking has become an essential tool for professionals in all fields.
However, a lesser-known but equally powerful concept is gaining ground in the national market: netweaving. While both focus on creating and strengthening connections, their approaches differ significantly and can impact your career in complementary ways.
According to a study cited by the Global Mentoring Group, research conducted by Harvard Business School revealed that over 70% of job openings are filled through networking. This data highlights the importance of cultivating and maintaining strong professional relationships.
However, in Brazil, networking is still underutilized. A survey of 650 executives, conducted by the Institute for Content Development for Executives (IDCE), revealed that many Brazilian professionals do not fully explore the potential of networking in their careers.
For Ana Tomazelli, psychoanalyst and President of the Institute for Research on Feminine Studies and Multiple Existences (Ipefem), the ability to build and cultivate strategic relationships has become an indispensable competitive advantage. “Today, business opportunities come not only from innovation, but from the people you connect with. Networking is the entrepreneur's new asset,” says Tomazelli.
Networking vs. netweaving: what are the differences?
Networking is the process of building and maintaining professional relationships aimed at exchanging information, exploring career opportunities, and fostering growth in the market. It is frequently associated with corporate events, communities, trade shows, conferences, and digital platforms such as LinkedIn.
The essence of networking is straightforward: identifying influential people in your field and positioning yourself as a relevant professional. However, to be effective, it requires a balance between sharing knowledge and demonstrating genuine interest in others, which often happens in times of need, such as job loss. Who hasn't heard "I need to reactivate my network" when facing a difficult moment?
On the other hand, netweaving is a more subjective approach, initially, to establishing connections. “Here, the main focus isn't what you can gain, but how you can serve others with what you have. It's about connecting people in a meaningful way, acting as a bridge in networks, where you facilitate interactions that can benefit others,” Ana adds.
In netweaving, reciprocity arises naturally. By fostering the growth of others and building relationships based on genuine empathy and generosity, you end up being remembered as a reliable and collaborative reference, and you are not seen as a self-serving person – in the sense of only seeking out others when you need something.
“Although different, the two tools don’t need to have mutually exclusive approaches. On the contrary, they can work in synergy. Networking helps increase your visibility and access opportunities, while netweaving deepens relationships and creates a network sustained by trust and future support,” explains Tomazelli.
For example, a professional might use networking to meet people at an event and then engage in netweaving by supporting those individuals in connecting with other contacts who can add value to their career paths. This combination balances a focus on personal development with altruism, generating both immediate and long-term benefits.
How can networking and netweaving be used and implemented in your career?
To implement networking, start by participating in events, communities, and interacting on platforms like LinkedIn. Identify people who share similar professional interests and maintain regular contact with them. Practice your personal presentation to make a good impression and demonstrate genuine interest in the achievements and challenges of others.
In the case of networking, look for opportunities to be helpful to your network. This might include introducing two colleagues who could benefit from a mutual connection or sharing useful tips and resources. Demonstrate empathy and be willing to volunteer, which can create a cycle of reciprocity and strengthen your position as a reliable and supportive professional.
“Combining these practices into your routine not only increases your chances of career advancement, but also fosters a more collaborative community, where relationships are built on trust and collective growth,” Ana points out.
While networking opens doors, netweaving strengthens the foundations of those connections. Incorporating both practices into your professional life not only increases your chances of success but also contributes to a more collaborative and human work environment. After all, in the business world, relationships build the foundation for sustainable growth.
