[K-Women Talk] "I Thought I Finished Alone, But I Wasn't Alone"

The Key to Success at Work: Networking
Achieving True Success Through
Mutual Support, Mentoring, and Encouragement

Is networking important in corporate life? In June, I participated in a triathlon held in Chungju and crossed the finish line for the first time. The 'power of networking' that I experienced in the triathlon?comprising 1.5km swimming, 40km cycling, and 10km running?was incomparable to the lessons I learned from interviewing successful professionals as a headhunter. While completing the race may seem like a personal achievement in terms of physical endurance, in reality, it is the result of countless invisible hands supporting you along the way.

From the preparation stage, I had an excellent coach and more than ten teammates. With them, I trained almost every morning before work, repeating indoor swimming, cycling, and running. Weekend open water training sessions on the Han River, designed to simulate real race conditions, as well as transition area (T1, T2) training to move from swimming to cycling and from cycling to running, were especially helpful. Such outdoor, practical training is difficult to do alone. On the day before the race, a seasoned teammate accompanied me on a preview of the cycling course and provided specific strategic advice, such as "accelerate in this section and be cautious here," which was invaluable for managing the course safely.

On race day, teammates who warmed up with me at dawn, club members who helped me put on my wetsuit, supporters who cheered "Fighting!" along the course, those who called my name and took photos, and the cheers from the support team during the toughest running section?all of these made the completion of the race a 'collective achievement' created by the encouragement and care of those around me.

What about corporate life? It is easy to think that individual competence is the most important factor for career success. There is no need to emphasize that personal effort and ability are fundamental. However, in reality, just like in a triathlon, the unseen power of networking plays a decisive role.

A recent story from a startup CEO I met was intriguing. "When I worked at a consulting firm, I couldn't attend all the important family events of colleagues, but after becoming a CEO, I make an effort to attend even those in other regions, despite my busy schedule." This demonstrates just how crucial human relationships are, even in startups.

Just like triathlon training, building a strategy for networking is essential in the workplace. First, find growth partners. Like my running group, these are colleagues who can complement each other's weaknesses and share strengths. Make active use of in-house study groups, project teams, and mentoring relationships.

Second, build a coaching network. Just as the center had a professional coach, it is important to find seniors or mentors who can pass on their experience and know-how. From them, you can gain practical experience and strategic advice.

Third, create a support system. Just as there were people cheering for me at T1 and T2, build relationships in advance with those who can offer encouragement and support during tough times. Attending important events and expressing daily interest are part of this.

Fourth, practice the principle of mutual assistance. It is not just about receiving help; you should also be willing to help others complete their own journeys first. By mentoring juniors, sharing knowledge, and providing networking opportunities, you can create a virtuous cycle.

Every time I look at the medal I received after completing the triathlon, I recall all the faces who were with me. Those who recognize the power of networking, build relationships strategically, and practice the spirit of mutual assistance are the ones who can ultimately 'finish the race' in the workplace as well. Look around you now. True success is not achieved alone, but is something we build together.

Moon Sunkyung, Executive Director at Unico Search