Which term describes the process of building relationships for career advancement?

Networking refers to the strategic process of creating and nurturing professional relationships that can lead to career advancement opportunities. It involves connecting with individuals within and outside the industry to exchange information, share resources, and gain support for career development.

Building a strong network can provide exposure to job opportunities, industry insights, and valuable contacts who may offer assistance or guidance throughout one’s career. Engaging in networking can take many forms, including attending industry conferences, participating in professional associations, or utilizing online platforms to connect with others in the field.

In contrast, while coaching, mentoring, and collaborating are all important aspects of professional growth and development, they each focus on different dynamics. Coaching typically involves a more structured relationship with a focus on skill development and performance improvement, while mentoring emphasizes guidance from a more experienced individual to help navigate career paths. Collaboration, on the other hand, refers to working together with colleagues or peers on specific projects or goals, rather than focusing on expanding one's professional connections for career advancement.