Networking for Marketers – The Why, the How and the When

Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting out, networking is important at both ends of the career journey. It’s probably not the first time you’ve heard how it can open doors to opportunities, foster collaborations, and enhance your professional development. Not sure why it’s completely necessary or where to start as a marketer wanting to network? Here’s what we reckon…

Why Networking Matters for Marketers

1. Knowledge Sharing and Learning

Networking provides a platform for marketers to share insights, trends, and industry knowledge. Through conversations and connections, you can stay updated on the latest marketing techniques, tools, and strategies, which is crucial in an industry that changes rapidly like ours. You’ll be surprised what you can pick up from real life examples and little anecdotes over cups of tea!

2. Career Opportunities

You’ve heard it before: it’s about who you know not what you know!

Networking can lead to job offers, collaborations, and partnerships. In a competitive industry like marketing, being connected can make all the difference when you’re looking to advance your career or explore new opportunities. It’s that leg up we all need.

3. Building a Support System

The marketing field can be challenging, especially in the current market, and having a network of professionals to lean on for advice, mentorship, or simply to share experiences can be incredibly beneficial. It’s hard out there at the moment and marketing is one of the industries that gets heavily impacted, so let’s support each other.

4. Enhancing Visibility and Credibility

By actively participating in industry events and discussions, you can enhance your personal brand and establish yourself as a credible professional in the marketing space. This can lead to speaking opportunities, media coverage, or being sought out for your expertise.

5. Uncovering New Business and Clients

For marketers working in agencies or as freelancers, networking can be a direct path to new business. Building relationships with potential clients or partners can lead to valuable business opportunities.

How to Network

So, how can you start networking in the marketing industry in New Zealand and Australia? Here are a few practical tips:

1. Attend Industry Events

Attending events is one of the best ways to network. In New Zealand and Australia, there are several notable marketing events where you can meet industry professionals. Some key events include:

• Marketing Association Events (New Zealand): The Marketing Association offers a variety of networking events, including Brainy Breakfasts, Monthly Meetups, Digital Day Out, Brand Summit, so on and so forth. These are great places to connect with fellow marketers.
• ADMA Events (Australia): The Association for Data-driven Marketing and Advertising (ADMA) hosts numerous events, such as the ADMA Global Forum coming up in August, providing excellent networking opportunities.
• Mumbrella Events (Australia): Mumbrella hosts events like Mumbrella360, where you can network with marketers, media professionals, and industry leaders.

2. Join Professional Organisations

Joining professional organisations like the Marketing Association in New Zealand or the Australian Marketing Institute (AMI) provides access to a network of professionals and exclusive events. These organisations often have local chapters or special interest groups, which can be great for networking on a more focused level.

3. Leverage Online Communities

What is amazing is that a lot of networking can be done online, how good! Online platforms like LinkedIn, marketing-specific forums, and social media groups are excellent places to network, share knowledge, and connect with other marketers. Engaging in discussions, sharing valuable content, and reaching out to professionals in your area of interest can help you build your network virtually.

4. Participate in Workshops and Courses

Professional development workshops and courses offer a more intimate setting for networking. Whether through a university like AUT or Vic, the Marketing Association, or a private provider, these settings often encourage collaboration and discussion among those who attend. Networking and learning, a double whammy.

5. Host or Attend Meetups

Local meetups, often organised through platforms like Meetup.com, provide casual networking opportunities. Look for marketing-focused meetups in your city or consider hosting one if there isn’t an existing group.

Surprising Benefits of Networking

While the tangible benefits of networking, like job opportunities and business leads, are well-known, there are some surprising benefits that might not be as obvious:

1. Confidence Injection

Regular networking can improve your communication and interpersonal skills, boosting your confidence in professional settings, especially if you’re just starting out.

2. Inspiring Creativity

Meeting new people and hearing their ideas can spark creativity and inspire new approaches to marketing challenges. Put forward some challenges and get some outside perspective, marketers love a good brainstorm.

3. Building Resilience

Networking can help you develop resilience by exposing you to different perspectives, feedback, and challenges. Don’t be afraid to ask your network for feedback, it will only make you a better marketer!

4. Finding Mentorship

Through networking, you might find a mentor who can guide you in your career, offering invaluable advice and support. We’re big advocates for marketing mentorship!

5. Creating Friendships

Beyond professional connections, networking can lead to genuine friendships with people who share your interests and passions.

Networking is a powerful tool for marketers, offering heaps of benefits, from knowledge sharing to uncovering new opportunities. In New Zealand and Australia there are plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals. By attending events, joining organisations, and engaging online, you can build a strong network that supports your career and personal growth. So, get out there, start networking, and have fun!