Maintaining and expanding your professional network is crucial, especially during uncertain times like lockdowns or economic shifts. For freelancers and professionals alike, networking drives opportunities—70% of hires typically come through connections, and with recruitment now fully online, businesses still have hiring needs. As a seasoned career strategist drawing from experts like Philippe Gabilliet, I've seen how mastering networking unlocks doors and builds resilience.
The payoff may take time, but investing in your network empowers your future and reduces stress by giving you greater control over your career trajectory.
Start by redefining your priorities
Times of confinement offer a chance to pivot professionally and realign priorities—turning challenges into opportunities, as Winston Churchill noted: "A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." With deconfinement underway and many still remote or on reduced hours, seize this moment to balance life: cherish family time, savor spring's arrival, explore virtual museums, or attend missed concerts.
Professionally, ask: What am I great at? What do I enjoy? What's in demand, and can I get paid for it? Refocus on your ikigai—the Japanese concept blending purpose, passion, and profession for fulfilling work.
Adopt these attitudes to boost opportunities and success
Philippe Gabilliet, psychology professor at ESCP Europe and author of Success: A Question of Luck?, defines networking skill as "creating conditions for opportunities to emerge." He outlines four key postures:
Reignite your networking efforts
In service sectors, blend digital and in-person tactics. Check platforms like Eventbrite or Meetup for workshops, conferences, and networking events.
Clarify goals first: Seek jobs, ideas, partners, or industry insights. Before engaging, define what you want—even if it evolves.
It's in your hands!
Source: Success: A Question of Luck? by Philippe Gabilliet.
