# Networking: what it is and how it works · Zorraquino
> Networking is the activity of building and maintaining a web of professional contacts based on exchanging information and opportunities.
URL: https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/digital-marketing/networking.html

# Networking

Networking is the activity of building and maintaining a web of professional contacts based on the exchange of information, support and opportunities

What it means, how it is used and where it comes up, with its related concepts.

[The whole glossary](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary)

## What it is and how it works

It can take place in person, at events, trade fairs, associations or industry meetings, and online, especially on professional networks such as LinkedIn and in specialist communities. It helps people find clients, partners, suppliers, jobs or talent, and also to learn and keep up with their industry.

It works better as a long-term relationship than as a hunt for immediate sales: offering value, keeping in touch and being reciprocal usually pays off more than collecting business cards or connections. It is related to social selling, which applies social media to the sales process.

Also known as

Professional networking

Topics

[Marketing and sales](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/category/marketing-y-ventas)

## Related concepts

- [LinkedIn](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/internet/linkedin.html)
- [Social selling](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/digital-marketing/social-selling.html)
- [LinkedIn open networker (LION)](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/digital-marketing/linkedin-open-networker-lion.html)