Networking

The term Networking can apply to a business environment where employees create relationships with other employees to help attain business, or personal, objectives.  For example, social networking can help an employee gain an introduction to potential future managers, thereby increasing the likelihood of being offered an opportunity to work in that manager's operating area.

"Skills networking" is a second type of network, where the employee builds a relationship with others that have specialized skills or knowledge.  Employees that are adept at building such networks are valuable not only for what they personally know, but also who they know in an organization.  Their personal network is of value to others too.

Networking can be a very helpful in any professional's career.  Conversely, the lack of networking may cause the professional to ultimately fall short of their career goals.