Home topics small-business-resources women-in-business Women in business Women in business Networking for women – what’s the point? Catriona Pollard November 30, 2011 Most business women are familiar with the term “old boy’s network,” an exclusive network of business men who can call in a favour from their exclusive group to help close a deal, get new business or progress in their career. There is no reason why women can’t do the same. They can achieve this by making it part of their career strategy to join networking groups that can further their career or connect with the right business people. From specific association networks to broad business groups, there are so many opportunities for business women to network, but does networking actually work? In my experience, the answer to that question is a resounding YES. Business networking is the single most effective way to not only meet new contacts that share your vision and mission but it is also an excellent method for meeting people that can assist in new business development. According to statistics approximately 75 percent of new business is acquired through referrals or relationship building. There is a similar figure for getting that perfect job. Sometimes it’s not what you know, but who you know. There is an extensive amount of networking opportunities out there just waiting for you to join. You can never have too many contacts Networking isn’t about collecting as many business cards as possible; it is about surrounding yourself with a support network