Why is networking important in career planning?

Networking is essential in career planning primarily because it focuses on building relationships that can lead to job opportunities and foster professional growth. Through networking, individuals can connect with professionals in their field, learn about potential job openings, gain insights into industry trends, and obtain valuable advice from those with more experience.

Building a strong professional network can also open doors to mentorship, collaborations, and referrals, all of which can significantly enhance one's career trajectory. Personal recommendations often carry more weight than traditional job applications, giving those who are well-networked a distinct advantage in their job search.

While the other options touch on aspects of workplace relationships and aspects of job security, they do not capture the overarching benefit of networking as effectively as the idea of relationship-building for career opportunities and growth.