Networking and Collaboration

10 Networking and Collaboration 

10.1 Introduction 

This section of the Toolkit will enable you to gain an understanding of the principles of working in networking and collaboration, and how to successfully undertake each.  Key learning points for this section include: 

• Developing an understanding of the benefits of networking and collaborative working
• Developing an understanding of how to successfully develop networks and collaborations to meet your needs   
• Developing an initial approach to initiating a networking activity

For ease of reference, this section will contain two parts, firstly dealing with networking, and secondly with collaborative working.

Part 1: Networking

10.2 What is Networking?

Networking, in its simplest form, involves keeping in touch with key contacts, as well as building new contacts.  In essence networking is about supporting, learning, sharing information, and having you views heard – what many VCO representatives do every day, simply with a more conscious drive to gain something tangible for the organisation, such as a key piece of information or identifying a new opportunity.  Networking supports the adage, “it’s not what you know, but who you know”.

Part 2: Collaborative Working

10.6 What is Collaborative Working?

Collaborative working is created when a number of individuals or organisations come together regarding a shared interest.  This is often referred to, informally, as a partnership.  There are usually a number of specific goals/objectives that a partnership has formed to address, which may be short or long term in nature, or a mix of both.  The process of collaborative working therefore seeks to achieve these goals/objectives.