networking
NET-wer-king
/ˈnet.wɜː.kɪŋ/
The action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts.
Emphasizes purposeful building of mutually beneficial relationships rather than casual socializing.
The story behind the word. Originally applied in the 16th century to meshed fabrics resembling nets. By the 20th century, it expanded to electrical grids and broadcasting chains, before gaining its current professional meaning in the 1970s.
Word relationships
- socializing: 'Socializing' is for fun and friendship; 'networking' is goal-oriented relationship development.
- isolation: Remaining detached from professional or social connections.
Commonly confused with
- network: 'Network' is the structure or system of connections; 'networking' is the active process of weaving them.
Word family
- network (noun/verb): An interconnected group or to establish connections.
Collocations
- professional networking
- networking event
- social networking
- networking skills
Idioms & expressions
- it's not what you know, it's who you know
Example sentences
- "Effective networking at alumni mixers frequently opens doors to unadvertised job opportunities." Career Guidance
Memory hook
Weaving a NET that WORKS for your career. Building connections like a woven net.
When not to use
Avoid using to describe pure leisure gatherings among old close friends.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'networking' in a career sense was popularized in management books during the late 1970s.
Related words
Explore more words
network, reciprocity, Interact, interconnectedness, socialize, Connectivity
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