Page 7 - DUT CONNECT - Spring 2024

Arusha Dasrath, of Supreme Consultancy, offers insights into the importance of connections and networking. Arusha is an Industrial Psychologist with a wealth of experience in Human Resource, focusing on how to influence workplace and structural decisions through the utilisation of the relevant tools and resources.
My experiences have taught me that connections are threads that weave the fabric of our existence. Networking cultivates these threads of connection into a robust fabric of opportunities and collaboration. My journey from tertiary education is a testament to the power of nurturing relationships as each encounter has woven a uniqueness into my personal and professional growth. Networking has brought about opportunities and collaborations which have shaped my life.
Networking is often portrayed as a buzzword in professional circles, yet its significance cannot be overstated, especially from students embarking on their journey through tertiary education.As a student myself, decades ago, I initially underestimated the profound impact that forming connections would have on my career trajectory. Little did I realise that these relationships would become instrumental in my professional growth, enabling me to build a successful consultancy years later.
When I reflect on my own experiences, I realise that networking was more than just exchanging numbers at events or adding people as contacts on LinkedIn. It was about forging genuine connections with peers, lecturers, and professionals in my field of study. These connections served as pillars of support and sources of invaluable knowledge throughout my academic journey.
Learning beyond the classroom
One of the primary benefits of networking as a student is the opportunity to learn beyond the confines of the classroom. Engaging with professors outside of lectures allowed me to delve deeper into topics of interest, and gain insights into real-world applications, and develop a more nuanced understanding of my chosen field.
Career guidance and mentorship
Establishing connections with professionals who walked the path before you can provide invaluable career guidance and mentorship. I was fortunate to find mentors who not only offered advice but shared their personal experiences and industry insights. Their guidance helped me navigate career choices and develop the skills to succeed.
Access to opportunities
Networking opens doors to various opportunities such as internships, research projects and job placements. Through
connections made during my undergraduate years, I secured an internship that provided me with hands-on experience and exposure that paved the way for future career opportunities. Giving off your best during every opportunity initiates the possibility of more prospects. These experiences are instrumental in shaping professional journeys of all those who make every second count.
Maintaining long-term relationships
The true value of networking often reveals itself over time. As I progressed in my career, I made a concerted effort to maintain relationships with lecturers, colleagues, and industry peers. This investment in nurturing connections proved invaluable when decades later, these encounters rekindled relationships that significantly impact my consultancy.
Finding synergy and connecting with similar interests enables the birth of deep connections and this goes beyond just expanding your contact list. It involves identifying individuals with whom you share common interests, values and goals. These shared interests form the basis of mutually beneficial relationships that endure over time.
Seeking authentic connections is key to forming meaningful connections when the prioritisation is on building relationships based on genuine interests and mutual respect rather than solely on focusing on persona gain.Authentic connections are more likely to withstand the test of time and yield fruitful collaborations.
Creating synergy occurs when individuals with complementary skills and perspectives come together to achieve shared objectives. In my experience, collaborating with individuals who bring different strengths to the table has resulted in innovative solutions and enhanced outcomes for projects. Embrace diversity within your network to foster creativity and innovation.
Paying it forward for the greater good, networking should not be viewed solely to advance one’s own career aspirations. It is equally important to pay it forward by supporting and uplifting others within your network and those who were once like you. Being a catalyst for positive change and contributing to the success of others can be immensely fulfilling .
For those reading this article, my message to you is that networking should be viewed as a cornerstone for success and should be used not only for your own gain, but for enabling others so that you may share in their success stories.As you embark on your journey ahead, remember that genuine connections based on shared interests are key to fostering meaningful collaborations. Embrace the opportunity to pay it forward by supporting others and contribute to collective success. By doing so, you are not only advancing your own career aspirations, but also contributing to a vibrant and interconnected professional community.
FOR Alumni and Friends OF THE DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
Navigating Your Professional
Path: Building Meaningful
Relationships
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