network
NET-wurk
/ˈnet.wɜːrk/
To interact with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts.
Implies active, deliberate relationship-building for mutual career benefit, distinct from just socializing.
The story behind the word. Originally, a 'network' was literally a textile fabric of threads or cords crossing at regular intervals, like a fishing net. By the 19th century, the word was applied to systems of intersecting lines like rivers, canals, and railways. It wasn't until the mid-20th century that it jumped into social science and business to describe the complex web of human connections we use to navigate our careers today.
Word relationships
- connect: Connect is a general term for establishing any link, whereas network specifically implies building professional relationships for mutual benefit.
- isolate: Isolate means to separate oneself from others, completely opposite to the active connection of networking.
Commonly confused with
- socialize: Socializing is done for personal pleasure and entertainment, while networking has a professional or career-oriented purpose.
Word family
- networker (noun): A person who actively builds professional contacts.
- networking (noun): The activity of meeting people who might be useful to know professionally.
Collocations
- professional network
- network actively
- expand your network
- networking event
Idioms & expressions
- it's not what you know, it's who you know
Example sentences
- "To build a robust professional network, one must focus on offering value to others before seeking opportunities for oneself." A guide on modern career development strategies.
Memory hook
Think of casting a 'net' into the professional ocean to catch 'work' opportunities. You weave individual threads of conversation into a strong safety net for your career. Cast your net to find your work.
When not to use
Don't use when describing deep, intimate personal friendships; it sounds overly transactional.
Fun facts
- The first recorded use of 'network' to describe a system of human connections occurred in 1954 in a study of a Norwegian parish by social anthropologist J.A. Barnes.
Related words
Explore more words
networking, socialize, Interact, liaise, reciprocity, Communicate
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