Why Networking is the Missing Link to Your Greater Success
In today's fast-paced world, networking is more than just a buzzword—it's a critical component of success. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a professional, or someone looking to expand your horizons, networking plays a vital role in building relationships that can transform your life and career.
Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards or adding connections on social media. It’s about forming deep, meaningful relationships that add value to your journey. In this blog post, we’ll explore the true power of networking, why it’s so essential, and how it can change your life forever.
The Power of Networking
Many people who feel stuck in life, whether financially or personally, often believe that their circumstances are unchangeable. But here’s something important to consider: As Tony Robbins says, "The quality of your life is the quality of your relationships." This powerful truth highlights that our connections and relationships can dramatically alter our trajectory in life.
Why does this matter? Because if you’re feeling stuck, the key to unlocking new opportunities might not be in working harder alone, but in expanding the circle of people you surround yourself with. Networking isn’t just about business; it’s about connecting with people who can inspire you, challenge you, and help you see opportunities that you might otherwise miss.
By investing time in building strong, genuine connections, you’re investing in a future where your circumstances are no longer defined by where you started but by the relationships you cultivate. Networking is the bridge from where you are to where you want to be.
Three Truths About Networking
To harness the full power of networking, it’s important to understand three key truths that can guide your approach:
1. Networking is a Learned Skill, Not a Personality Type
Networking isn’t about being born a ‘people person.’ It’s a skill that anyone can develop with intention and practice. As John C. Maxwell says, "Change is inevitable. Growth is optional." If you’re willing to grow, you can master the art of networking. It’s not about who you are; it’s about who you’re willing to become. With commitment to personal growth, anyone can learn how to build and nurture connections.
2. Networking is Built, Not Given
Success in networking doesn’t happen by accident—it requires consistent, intentional action. As Stephen Covey famously said, "You have to water the flowers you want to grow." Building a powerful network isn’t something that just happens; it’s something you have to work at every day. Many people hope to meet the right connections, but few take the necessary steps to make it happen. Networking is an active, disciplined pursuit that must be prioritized in your daily life. The connections you build are the foundations of your future success.
3. Networking Starts with the Heart
Networking isn’t just about what you can get; it’s about what you can give. As Paul Tsika says, "The heart of the issue is the issue of the heart." People often approach networking with a personal agenda, thinking only about what they can gain. This is a mistake because people can sense when someone is being selfish, and it turns them off. True networking is rooted in a mindset of service and generosity. By focusing on how you can add value to others and genuinely caring about their needs, you build trust, loyalty, and long-lasting relationships that benefit everyone involved.
Practical Steps to Improve Your Networking Skills
Now that we’ve explored why networking is so powerful, let’s dive into how you can start improving your networking skills today. Here’s a simple framework I call the ‘People Skills Ladder,’ which can guide you no matter where you are in your networking journey.
Step 1: Make Eye Contact and Smile
The first step is simple but powerful: Make eye contact and smile. This creates an open and approachable posture. Humans are hardwired to recognize and respond to positive emotions, even from a distance. When you smile—genuinely—you become more approachable, opening the door to meaningful interactions.
Step 2: Practice Saying Hello to Everyone
Now that you’ve got the posture down, acknowledge those around you by simply saying hello everywhere you go. This might lead to conversations naturally because of the foundation you’ve built with your posture. It’s a small gesture, but it can make a big difference in how others perceive you.
Step 3: Practice Starting Conversations
Now that you have people’s attention, try engaging them in conversation. Focus on positivity and compliments. Unfortunately, we live in a world where the most common language is complaining or gossiping. Don’t be that person. Take the high road! As Jon Gordon says in "The Energy Bus," "Positive energy is contagious, and it helps bring people to a higher level."
Genuine curiosity is key here. When you’re engaging someone in conversation, make it about them. Ask questions, listen intently, and don’t rush your thinking. Your only job here is to listen and learn more.
Step 4: Learn to Direct and Deepen Conversations
Once a conversation is underway, it’s important to steer it in a direction that helps you evaluate whether this connection could be mutually beneficial. As John Maxwell says, "Good leaders ask great questions." Future-focused questions are particularly effective because high-level people love talking about opportunities, ideas, and progress. For example, asking, "What are your plans for the weekend?" might open the door to a discussion about their goals or projects, giving you an opportunity to share your own experiences and potentially planting a seed for further collaboration.
Step 5: Make the Ask
At this point in the conversation, you should have the start of a potential network addition. But how do you know when you should get their contact information? It’s very simple: If you like them and see potential for mutual benefit, it’s time to make the ask. This means you believe you could help each other, whether through sharing ideas, offering support, or collaborating on future opportunities.
A simple way to get their number might be to say something like, "I’ve really enjoyed our conversation, and I’d love to stay in touch. What’s the best way to reach you?" This approach is straightforward and assumes that the connection is worth continuing, which helps make the exchange of contact information feel natural and mutually beneficial.
Step 6: Be Intentional with Follow-Up
Don’t just get a contact and let it collect "tech dust" in your phone. Reach out to them as soon as possible. My rule is within 24 hours. The longer you wait, the less they remember about your interaction. Building a network is like tending to a garden. It requires regular care and attention.
Conclusion: Start Practicing Today
Networking is a powerful tool that can unlock incredible opportunities, both personally and professionally. The People Skills Ladder is designed to meet you wherever you are, so pick a rung and start practicing immediately. Remember, networking is not just about building your business, it’s about building relationships that can change your life.
You’re not alone on this journey. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, we’re here to support you every step of the way. So take action today! Start practicing, start connecting, and let’s build something great together.