Networking in building bases for meaningful OHS policies

Occupational health and safety is a multidisciplinary field in the realm of social sciences; thus professionals of the field cannot perform one’s duties in isolation. It is essential and beneficial for the professional to perform in due account of the surrounding social structures, i.e., to be able to maximize networking.   The central notion of networking among professionals (vis-à-vis among friends) is social interaction based on common interest. The process typically starts from recognition of a potential counterpart, identification of mutual benefits, actual interplay towards the common interest, and ultimately sharing the outcome. Networking is most effective, i.e., “win-win” is materialized, when the interplay between parties reinforces strengths and complements weaknesses of the concerned parties. As in any human relationship, blatant calculations, e.g., “offer to gain,” which lack trust/respect will likely go fruitless. However, when successful, the outcome will exceed expectations of a non-networked performance and the network may further extend and even self-propagate.  For networking to lead to bases of OHS policies, either a collective force is created by researchers or individual connection is established directly with policy-makers and/or administration. An example of the former is the formulation of a scientific consensus within academic bodies, and that of the latter is political influence. Increasingly, international networking with colleagues and groups as well as crossing borders of expertise and generations will expand the horizon in such endeavors. All in all, effective networking calls for effective communication and negotiation skills founded on sharp foresight. In addition, a delicate balance should be sought between standing by principles and adaptability to varied environments.