Why Networking Matters in Tanzania
In Tanzania, relationships drive business. Studies suggest that over 60% of professional positions are filled through referrals and personal connections before they're ever publicly advertised. Building a strong professional network isn't optional — it's a core job search strategy.
This doesn't mean you need to be well-connected to succeed. It means actively building relationships should be part of your career plan from day one.
Where to Network
**Industry events and conferences:** Dar es Salaam hosts regular tech meetups (Buni Hub, Sahara Sparks), finance summits, and HR conferences. Attend even if you're not in the exact industry — cross-sector connections open unexpected doors.
**Professional associations:** Join your industry's professional body — NBAA for accountants, TLS for lawyers, ICT Commission events for tech professionals.
**LinkedIn:** Tanzania's LinkedIn user base is growing rapidly. Connect with recruiters, hiring managers, and peers. Share industry insights to build visibility.
**Alumni networks:** Your university alumni network is underutilized. Connect with graduates who've established careers in your target industry.
**Religious and community groups:** In Tanzanian culture, community ties often lead to professional opportunities. Maintain these connections respectfully.
**Nafasi community:** Engage with employer profiles and company pages on Nafasi to stay visible to potential employers.
Networking Dos and Don'ts
**Do:** - Lead with how you can help others, not what you need - Follow up within 48 hours of meeting someone new - Keep your Nafasi and LinkedIn profiles current - Share useful industry content and insights - Be genuinely interested in what others do
**Don't:** - Ask for a job in your first conversation - Only reach out when you need something - Ignore people who can't "help" you right now — today's peer is tomorrow's hiring manager - Burn bridges with former employers or colleagues - Overpromise and underdeliver on connections you offer