What is "Networking" meaning?

Networking is a business activity focused on creating and nurturing professional relationships with individuals, groups, or organizations. It plays a crucial role in industries like entrepreneurship, tech, and digital marketing, where collaborations, partnerships, and referrals often drive new opportunities. Effective networking can lead to shared resources, joint ventures, or client leads.

Example

“She grew her e-commerce brand largely through networking in startup circles and online business communities.”

How is "Networking" used in business?

In business, networking is used by founders, freelancers, executives, and marketers to build relationships, gain referrals, and access knowledge or opportunities. It’s a key driver of visibility and reputation in both offline and online environments, including social media platforms like LinkedIn.

Pro Tip

Focus on adding value before expecting it—genuine engagement and helping others first can build trust and long-term connections.

Related Terms

Business Development, Referral Marketing, Strategic Partnerships, Community Building