The wealthiest individuals in the world attribute their success, in part, to their powerful networks. In a recent interview series, we asked some of these successful entrepreneurs how they’ve grown their networks and what tips they have for others looking to do the same.
We’ve asked our interviewees a single question – Some of the wealthiest individuals agree that your net worth is proportional to your network. Share some of your success stories related to networking. What are you doing to strategically grow your network?
Read their answer below
Sophia Jones
Title: Investment Analyst
Company: PiggyBank
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophia-jones-52a37a245
As an investment analyst, I believe that the most important thing you can do to grow your network is to know how and when to connect with people.
The first step is to get to know people by starting conversations and asking questions about their interests and goals.
Then you can use those insights to find opportunities for collaboration and growth. In my experience, it’s also very helpful to have a goal in mind when you meet someone new.
That way, when you’re having a conversation with them, you can be more focused on achieving your goal instead of just trying to make small talk.
Aside from that, I believe it’s better to reach out directly via email rather than be persistent on social media or phone calls (unless they ask). This ensures that they get the message quickly without feeling overwhelmed by too many messages at once.
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Lydia Wicham
Title: Head Of Content
Company: SEO-Audits.io
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hamza-ghayas-usmani-haro-link-builder-6670691a7/
Introduce yourself properly:
Entrepreneurs can build their networks by connecting people who move in separate networks. Successful entrepreneurs often function as “brokers” in this way. Knowing when to make helpful introductions is difficult. My interviewee said: “I used to just make introductions based on shared hobbies or college graduation. I inquire what problem they’re solving and tell them why they should meet. This way, I squander less time.” Entrepreneurs use their ever-growing networks intelligently, establishing matches where both sides can benefit, becoming a central, trusted node. Starting up can feel impossible. People are the key to success, says research. If networking feels vague, focus on the three proven tactics above. Start with your existing relationships, aid those who could help your business, and build new connections. Your startup and network will flourish.
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Ashley Russell
Title: Founder
Company: Article Fiesta
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/its-ash/
I believe that networking is one of the most important skills for entrepreneurs. I have found that the best way to grow a network is to be strategic about it.
Here are some tips for how to be strategic about networking:
1. Define your goals. What do you want to achieve by networking?
2. Do your research. Find out who the key players are in your industry and make a list of people you want to meet.
3. Attend events. Attend industry events, trade shows, and conferences. This is a great way to meet people in your industry.
4. Follow up. After you meet someone, make sure to follow up with them. Send them an email, connect with them on social media, or invite them to coffee.
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Shaun Martin
Title: Founder & CEO
Company: The Home Buying Company
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-martin-41b01b1a6/
#1. Join or attend industry events
It is a must to join or attend industry events to grow our network. We attend events related to our field or sector and meet new people who can help us professionally. Aside from meeting new contacts, we also try to learn from these events and gain valuable insights that can help us in our business.
#2. Get involved in social media
Social media is a great way to connect with new people and grow our network. We make sure to participate in online discussions and forums related to our industry. We also follow influential people in our field and interact with them online.
#3. Connect with old contacts
We also make sure to keep in touch with our old contacts and reconnect with them from time to time. These are people who we have met in the past and have some connection with. By staying in touch, we can keep them updated on our latest developments and they can also do the same for us.
#4. Make new contacts
We also make it a point to meet new people and make new contacts. We do this by attending industry events, participating in social media, and networking with old contacts. We make sure to exchange contact information with these new contacts so we can keep in touch.
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Sinoun Chea
Title: CEO and Founder
Company: ShiftWeb
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinoun/
One of the best things about networking is that it can lead to unexpected opportunities. In the marketing world, for example, many people land their dream job not because they applied for it but because they met the right person at the right time. For me, networking has led to some great opportunities in my career. At an early age, I was able to meet people who were already successful in my field, and they took me under their wing and mentored me. As a result, I was able to learn from the best, make important connections, and get my foot in the door of some great companies.
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Fred Baker
Title: Senior Travel Editor
Company: Travelness
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fred-baker-546a00247/ads/2021/03/linkedin-icon.png
The travel industry is very diverse, and I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many amazing people from all over the world. I’ve found that networking is one of the best ways to learn about new cultures and to find out about different travel experiences. I’ve made some great contacts through networking events and online forums. One of my favorite networking experiences was when I met a group of travel bloggers at an event in New York City. We hit it off immediately, and we’ve kept in touch ever since. We’ve collaborated on several blog posts and projects, and it’s been a great way to connect with other like-minded people. I’ve also found that social media is a great way to connect with people in the travel industry. I’m active on Twitter and Facebook, and I’ve used these platforms to build relationships with travel writers, editors, and other professionals.
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Tom McSherry
Title: Owner & Business Manager
Company: Smuggs Underwear
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-mcsherry/
My professional network is largely responsible for my career success. Ten years ago, when I started, I made a concerted effort to connect with people in my industry and learn much from them. I’ve done a few key things to strategically grow my network. First, I try to connect with people who can help me achieve my goals. Whether it’s connecting with potential clients or collaborators, I try to build relationships with people who can help me reach my objectives. Second, I try to communicate with people with similar interests. I find that I can learn a lot from people who share my interests and goals. Finally, I also make an effort to connect with people who are different from me. I believe it’s essential to have a diverse network, and I’ve found that I can learn a lot from people with different perspectives.
My professional network has been invaluable in helping me achieve my career goals. By making strategic connections and building relationships with people who can help me, I’ve accomplished a lot more than I would have on my own.
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Sarah Watson
Title: Chief Operating Officer
Company: BPTLAB
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bestpersonalitytests/
I’ve found that the best way to grow your network is to focus on quality over quantity. To me, it’s all about building genuine relationships with people. I make an effort to connect with new people, but I also nurture the relationships that I already have. I make an effort to keep in touch with my contacts, even if we don’t work together directly. I send them articles that I think they would find interesting or just check in to see how they’re doing. In addition to growing my professional network, I also try to grow my personal network. I believe that strong relationships are important in all areas of life. I make an effort to reach out to old friends and family members, and I also try to meet new people through social activities.
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Will Cannon
Title: Founder and CEO
Company: Signaturely
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-cannon
As a business professional, I am always looking for ways to strategically grow my network. I try to attend industry events and meet-ups, and I am always looking for new opportunities to connect with people who can help me further my career. I also make an effort to stay in touch with my current contacts, and I am always looking for ways to add value to my network. By taking these steps, I am able to develop relationships that are beneficial for both parties. In addition, I am also able to position myself as a valuable resource for my contacts. As a result, I am able to build a network that is both robust and supportive.
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Thomas Simon
Title: Marketing Manager
Company: Monitask
Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3U8Bg8T
The best way to grow your network is to be intentional about it. You can’t just sit back and wait for people to come to you – you have to go out and meet them. But it’s not enough to just meet people – you have to make a connection with them. When you do, be sure to follow up and keep in touch. For example, you can stay in touch with your classmates, colleagues, and other professionals you know. This way, you’ll always have a network of people you are familiar with and who can help you with your career. Finally, remember that networking is not just about getting something from someone – it’s about giving as well. So be generous with your time, advice, and connections. Help others grow their networks, and they will be more likely to help you in return.
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Will Cannon
Title: Founder & CEO
Company: Uplead
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-cannon
I connect with key players within my industry. It’s important to identify the gatekeepers and decision-makers in your industry and build relationships with them. These people can open doors for you and connect you with other valuable contacts. I do this by attending industry events, joining relevant professional organizations, and networking online. I also make an effort to keep in touch with my network. I stay up-to-date on their latest projects and accomplishments and offer my congratulations and support. I also let them know about any new developments in my own career. By staying connected, I nurture and strengthen my relationships with key contacts.
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Anthony Mixides
Title: Managing Director
Company: Bond Media
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bondmedia/
Volunteering should be pursued:
Volunteering for a cause you care deeply about is a tool for developing networking opportunities that some professionals overlook. Small conversation tends to dominate professional networking gatherings, which frustrates those who want to forge deeper connections with others who share their interests. Volunteering frequently results in more in-depth discussions and offers more chances to create better and deeper relationships. Forming connections with individuals from backgrounds different from your own will enable you to create a network that is more robust than one that is only comprised of people who share your professional interests.
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David Reid
Title: Sales Director
Company: VEM Group
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vem-tooling
What are you doing to strategically grow your network?
Some strategies which I am using for strategically growing my network are as follows:
Make connections digitally
In the modern era, every person is using digital platforms extensively. According to the report passed by Facebook, the number of accounts registered on its platform was greater than the world’s total population. It is humorous, but it’s the reality. This study shows that individuals are excitedly engaging on social media platforms. For me, social media platforms are the best way to network. It is impossible to meet directly with some people to make connections, but on social media, we can chat, call, and video call with others. However, social media has played a great role in creating my large network. I remain active on all the social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and many more. Apart from this, I continuously send replies to people and post continuously. It will help me to remain active in building the network.
Spending time socially
It is one of my good habits. I like to spend some of the hours of my day either in the parks or other social places. In social places, I collect knowledge, help others and tell them about my business. It will also help me in advertising my business and building strong connections. I always see all types of individuals, whether mediocre or high standard, with the same attitude. This behavior is also the reason behind my good network.
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Sean Grabow
Title: Founder or CEO
Company: Central City Solutions
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-grabow-5ba50418a
It’s about meeting the right people. Attending networking events and exchanging as many business cards as you can isn’t always the key to networking. It’s not about networking in the hopes that things will come together. Instead, make an effort to focus on the individuals who you know can have a significant impact on your career. Concentrate on knowing their names as well.
Full name: Sean Grabow
Position: Founder and CEO Central City Solutions.
Website URL: https://ohiocashfairoffer.com/
Headshot link: https://i.gyazo.com/b55c8df0867dc1489dc6031964458c4d.png
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Jimmy Ogle
Title: Founder
Company: Ogle Property Solutions
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrayogle
Don’t forget to reconnect. Many of us receive unexpected phone calls from people we haven’t heard from in a long time. When that occurs, you might not want to go above and beyond for them because they haven’t made an attempt to keep a relationship going. Remember to maintain contact with the individuals you have chosen to network with. People typically value quick check-ins and follow-ups more than you might think.
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Simon Brisk
Title: CEO/ Founder
Company: Click Intelligence
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonbrisk/
When I started Click Intelligence in 2012, my first few clients were my own college classmates who owned e-commerce businesses. They helped me pilot my skills practically and earned me the testimonials and numbers that I needed to bring in more clients. At the start, I would attend every networking event I could and distributed my business cards there, requesting meetings with businesses I felt like I could develop great marketing campaigns for. This is how I gained the next dozen or so clients for Click Intelligence – all through networking. Some of the business owners I spoke to wouldn’t onboard themselves but would refer me to other businesses who became my clients. That’s the power of networking! You create a FOMO effect (fear of missing out) for your target audience, and also generate word of mouth to gain clients. Would my business have kicked off this quick if I had waited for clients to come in organically? I don’t think so! So definitely, your net worth is your network is a statement that stays true in all times.
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Josh Craven
Title: Mortgage Advisor and CEO
Company: Sprint Funding
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshcraven1/
Your network can open up opportunities for you and help you meet new people who can help you further your career or business. Being a Mortgage Advisor, I am always looking to network and meet new people. I have found that some of the best ways to grow your network are through referrals. When you provide excellent service to someone, they are more likely to refer you to their friends and family. Another great way to grow your network is by getting involved in your community. There are many networking events that take place within communities that can help you meet new people and learn about new opportunities.
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Daniel Cook
Title: Head of Business Development
Company: Mullen & Mullen
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-cook-a1383422a/
I treat every work or social event as an opportunity to network. I don’t think there are limits to where and when you can build and foster relationships with people within your industry or related industries, just as long as you conduct yourself properly and appropriately according to the occasion. Networking doesn’t always have to look like hustling. Even striking a casual conversation with someone may open doors of opportunity in the future. You just don’t know it yet at the moment. My best tip is to be as authentic as possible, and the way to do this is to just go out there and talk with people without expecting anything to come out of it. Opportunities will come when you least expect them.
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Robyn Newmark
Title: CEO
Company: Newmark Beauty
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robyn-newmark-a27b498b
My focus on networking is not just about deepening my connections with key people in my industry. I also focus on widening my reach by connecting with people outside of my industry, even very distantly-related ones. One cannot say what kind of creative collaborations can become possible if you work or even just trade ideas with someone who has a completely different expertise from yours. That’s why when it comes to networking, I try to build as many connections as I can, even if they don’t necessarily lead to business right away. It’s like sowing seeds randomly everywhere. I’m not sure which of them will grow, but those that will grow will certainly be a welcome bonus.
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Dmitry Kondratiev
Title: CEO
Company: LLC.Services
Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/dmitriy-kondratiev-lawyer
An effective strategy I use to grow my network is to dedicate time to get in
touch with people I have built relationships with or previously networked with.
Here is why it is effective. Initially, when I was starting out and wanted to
grow my network, I would attend seminars, workshops and interact with people, make
connections, share my card and leave it at that. However, I noted networking is
a never-ending adventure in entrepreneurship and shouldn’t be a one-time thing.
Once I make an initial connection, I do not leave it at that. So, I decided to
dedicate time to getting a strategy by getting in touch with people. After meeting
new people, I keep in touch with them. I ask how they are doing, periodically ask
for meetups, attend their events, or invite them to mine. The result is me
getting to know more people through the people I have previously met while
strengthening my networking relationships, a win-win.
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Mallory Musante
Title: Marketing Strategist
Company: Mallory Musante
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorymusante/
While I do all the typical networking efforts you’d traditionally imagine like attending networking events, connecting with others on LinkedIn, Instagram, and in Facebook groups, I think the most beneficial strategy I’ve used in growing my network is developing strategic partnerships in complementary industries.
I’m a marketing strategist so connecting with web and brand designers, social media professionals, copywriters, and others in complementary industries has allowed me to strategically build a referral pipeline to my business while also having a network to refer my clients to as well.
Many business owners spend a lot of time networking to grow their client base, which is absolutely important, but not the only way to network. I’ve found that creating this referral pipeline of complementary industries has helped grow my business exponentially compared to solely focusing on networking with my target market.
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Jonathan Saeidian
Title: CEO
Company: Brenton Way
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saeidianj/
I believe the best way to grow your network is to be genuine.
It sounds cliche, but it’s true. Everyone wants to feel like they’re being heard and understood, so if you can focus on that and make it a priority to actually listen to people who are in your network (or in any professional capacity), then you’ll be able to really build up trust and rapport with them.
The more you show that you’re interested in what others have to say and understand their perspective, the better off everyone will be!
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Matt Teifke
Title: Founder & CEO
Company: Austin Real Estate Brokerage
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-teifke-90672438/
#1. Join a Real Estate Group or Network
The best way to grow your real estate network is to join a group or network of other real estate professionals. This will give you access to other agents, brokers, and industry experts who can help you grow your business. There are many different types of groups and networks available, so be sure to find one that fits your needs.
#2. Attend Networking Events
Another great way to grow your real estate network is to attend networking events. These events are typically designed to help professionals connect with one another and build new business relationships. There are many different types of networking events, so be sure to find ones that are relevant to your industry.
#3. Get Involved in Local Organizations
Another great way to grow your real estate network is to get involved in local organizations. This will give you the opportunity to meet other professionals who are interested in the same things as you. There are many different types of organizations, so be sure to find ones that are relevant to your industry.
#4. Use Social Media
Social media is a great way to connect with other real estate professionals and build your network. There are many different social media platforms, so be sure to find ones that are relevant to your industry.
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Jennifer Spinelli
Title: Founder And CEO
Company: Watson Buys
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-spinelli-itsm-consultant/
– Get involved in your local community
One great way to grow your network is to get involved in your local community. There are many different ways to do this, but some of the best include volunteering for local organizations, joining community groups, and attending local events.
– Get involved in online communities
Another great way to grow your network is to get involved in online communities related to your industry or interests. There are many different online communities out there, so take some time to find ones that are a good fit for you. Once you find a few, start participating in the discussions and getting to know the other members.
– Attend industry events
Another great way to grow your network is to attend industry events. These can be local events or national conferences, but either way they provide a great opportunity to meet other professionals in your field and learn about the latest trends.
– Stay connected with your current network
One of the best ways to grow your network is to stay connected with the people you already know. Reach out to old friends, colleagues, and acquaintances on a regular basis and see how they are doing. You never know when someone you know will be able to help you out or introduce you to someone new.
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Dean Lee
Title: Head of Marketing
Company: Sealions
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanleeseo/
Make appropriate introductions at the appropriate times.
Connecting people that may be useful to one another but move in different networks is one of the finest ways I’ve found to grow my networks. It’s well recognized that successful entrepreneurs frequently have the ability to operate as a broker in this manner. It can be trickier to determine when to introduce people in a truly useful way. I used to just introduce people, reasoning that since they had similar interests or had attended the same college, they would like getting to know one another. As I give the matter more thought, I inquire as to the issue they are attempting to solve, as well as provide my thoughts on why I believe the two of them ought to meet. This manner, I believe, I squander less time from others. When there is a clear feeling of value for both parties, entrepreneurs match-make, using their ever-expanding networks carefully and becoming a central, dependable node among networks.
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Gary Hunter
Title: Director
Company: CompareGolfPrices.
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-hunter-b6451918/
First and foremost, assist other people.
I have found that providing immediate value to a new connection is one of the most effective networking tactics that I can do. This implies that you should act as soon as you find a chance to assist someone. Giving is the key to networking, in my opinion. You’ll get something later. But in reality, you are scattering these seeds. Some of them will pass away without producing anything. Many of them won’t pay off for you for many, many years, if ever. My experience has taught me that the most successful business people I’ve collaborated with never expect anything in return. Entrepreneurs create value in their ecosystem and foster valuable connections because they genuinely care about the success of others. Over time, the favors frequently come back, giving persistent business owners the assistance they require when they ask for it.
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Travis Lindemoen
Title: Managing Director
Company: Nexus IT Group
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travisnexusitgroup/
In my experience, one of the most effective methods to strategically expand my network is to set up a monthly meeting time and location. Set up some lunch and coffee dates with folks you’d like to get to know better over the next few months, whether they’re possible mentors, upper management, or coworkers from other teams. Don’t forget to do your research before the meeting so you may ask pertinent questions and provide something of worth to the discussion about their hobbies and successes.
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Gerrid Smith
Title: Director of E-commerce
Company: Joy Organics
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrid-smith-1259622/
Volunteering and serving on boards are two of the most effective ways I’ve found to expand my professional network. Joining a service group may demand some extra time out of your busy schedule, but it can pay off in the long run by adding credibility to your CV and giving you access to new professional contacts on a regular basis. Be practical about the time commitment you’re willing to make; occasional volunteer work may be more feasible than, for instance, running for the presidency of an organization. Prioritize boards that are relevant to a particular field of employment and choosing a structure relies on a matter you’re enthusiastic over.
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Luciano Colos
Title: CEO
Company: PitchGrade
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucianocolos/
I am organizing a local event every quarter where I invite other entrepreneur friends and I let them invite their friends. I do it on a Thursday evening at a bar. Each person buys their drinks and the organization is quite nimble. It’s a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to meet new people and they’re all grateful to me for organizing this. In this way, I put myself at the center of the group by offering something of value that only takes me a few hours to organize every quarter. This way I keep growing and nurturing my network while helping others connect.
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Melanie Edwards
Title: Sr. E-Commerce and Digital Product Manager
Company: OLIPOP
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melaniebedwell/
I use social media and professional networking tools to my advantage. We live in an age where it’s easier than ever to network. Connect with those in your industry and within your company on LinkedIn. Ask to be introduced to professionals you admire. Promote your brand on your own social media platforms. Lastly, join Discord, Bumble Bizz, and Meetup in addition to LinkedIn. These tools can expand your network further and give you another avenue to grow your personal and professional brand.
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Jason Porter
Title: Senior Investment Manager
Company: Scottish Heritage Pvt Ltd Company
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-porter-a09038242/
Networking opportunities are all around us. These are often the opportunities I waste. I embrace whatever opportunity I have to meet new people. In addition to enjoying meeting new people, networking can allow me to advance others’ careers, and in certain cases, I might even get the support I need to accept a job offer. I try to stay in touch with my people. A short email, text or even snail mail communication is often met with a pleasant surprise.
I also have my networking story to share. I had decided to relocate from Chicago to New York with my family. I sent a lovely email informing message to my NYC network that I was coming back and looking for a particular position. Remember that I had previously developed professional ties with this network over time, many of them by networking in person. I sent 125 unique messages over a few days, personalizing each with the contact’s first name. The response rate was good, and I received both direct and indirect responses as I finalized my travel plans. I had five in-person interviews that week and was given two job offers. This strategy can yield huge outcomes if you build networking contacts over time and lend a hand to others!
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Julius Cermak
Title: Naturopathic Herbalist & CEO
Company: Deer Antler Velvet
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julius-c-00a4a124b/
Getting online is key to building your network, and there is no better space out there for meeting like-minded peers and professionals than on LinkedIn. It was once a bit of a dead zone, that was simply used for CV uploading, but in recent years it has really put the social back into its game plan, and has become a great place to talk to people, discuss relevant topics and stay in contact with other professionals.
One of the most useful features you will find is the group setting, which allows you to be a part of groups that solely discuss your industry or profession, allowing you to connect with others who can teach you new things and learn from you. With ongoing conversations, it is easy to dip in and out at times that suit you, and you are only a DM away from connecting more closely with a specific professional who has piqued your interest.
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David Lewis
Title: Owner & Founder
Company: Monegenix
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidchristopherlewis/
Twitter spaces, which has recently been launched live across the social network site offers a unique opportunity for professionals to connect and network, away from trolls and invisible profiles who can often try to ruin interactions on the site.
While you don’t get an immediate invite to somebodies ‘space’ unless they want you there, this can easily be achieved through interaction and useful commentary on their posts. Also, don’t be afraid to ask somebody if you want to join their space. Most people will announce that they have one for particular conversations on their wider twitter account, and there is no harm in expressing that you are interested in being a part of that conversation – a great way to meet other professionals in a wider social network, while it still being a safe and professional space.
Alternatively – create your own twitter space, and invite your dream professional audience
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Warner Quiroga
Title: President/CEO
Company: Prestige Homebuyers
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warnerquiroga/
Strategically growing the business is undoubtedly an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also requires time and effort. I believe business owners who don’t have the time to focus on networking will miss opportunities that could have benefited their business significantly. Showing up at events creates opportunities for networking because you’ll be surrounded by other professionals in your industry or niche.
Through networking, as a business owner, I can reach out to potential customers on a more personal level by engaging in discussions, sharing articles, and engaging in conversations. Business owners are taking steps to strategically grow their network, not just by joining associations but also by extending their reach into social media, forming partnerships with other organizations, and staying connected.
A powerful network is a great asset to a business. But it’s not enough to know many people—you need to be strategic about how you use and build your network. Developing strategic relationships, nurturing current ones, and connecting with the right people are essential.
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Matt Miller
Title: CEO
Company: Embroker
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/millermatthewc/
What originally started out as a way of marketing, I also found joining online community groups to be just as effective at growing my network. Online community groups have nearly doubled in the last two years, and while many businesses will use them as an apparatus to do marketing research or stay on top of the latest trends, the fact that these groups attract a great number of other business owners and investors make them an opportune place to develop and foster contacts.
By starting online conversations, commenting on others posts, sharing interesting articles, and asking questions, I put myself in contact with individuals who can be quite beneficial to my business. Therefore, I make it a point to search for online community groups at least once a month, to make sure that I put myself in contact with as many customers and entrepreneurs as possible, as I know that inevitably I will find someone with a synergy to our business and grow my network exponentially.
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Adelle Archer
Title: CEO
Company: Eterneva
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adellearcher/
Most people look at their investors as solely a source of capital but when we brought on ours, we saw an opportunity to expand our network. It is easy to get caught up in the capital aspect when initiating your startup, as immediate needs generally require money, but while you certainly want people who are willing to invest it is critical that you research them to learn all their capabilities they bring to your business.
By being proactive, we made a concerted effort to bring on investors who brought more than just a cash influx, but their expertise and especially an extensive network. Whether it was contacts that could bring on promotional prowess, help in designing contracts, or individuals who coil help in operational management, researching and pursuing investors that had those people in their network proved to be every bit as valuable to our business as the money they put into our business.
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Cody Candee
Title: CEO
Company: Bounce
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/codycandee/
Although it may not sound formal, my networking strategy is simple in that it continues whether it is during business hours or not through off-hours groups and organizations. There are formal settings designed for networking such as conferences and other professional events, but much of this process takes place outside of those typical environments.
Therefore, I join fitness clubs, community organizations, and even groups that are involved with hobbies and points of interest to meet people. Beyond the enjoyment I get from being a part of these groups, they continually serve as amazing places to increase my network, so much so that I incorporated them into my networking strategy. By staying involved and connected to these organizations, I put myself in a position to continuously meet new people and in the process, grow my network.
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Brad Hall
Title: CEO & Co-Founder
Company: SONU Sleep
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/bradleyhallexec
As you transition through your career and come into contact with different people from different areas of expertise and different industries, work to maintain those relationships. The more working relationships you’ve acquired throughout your career, the more organic and easy your network becomes. Networking can be hugely difficult when it’s forced, but you can let it grow naturally as you move through the stages of your career, showing interest and sharing appreciation along the way.
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Rhett Stubbendeck
Title: CEO
Company: LeverageRx
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/rhett-stubbendeck/
My business has a lot of focus on networking, be it with clients or other businesses. I believe that establishing personal connections opens up opportunities for growth. For example, it can lead to positive word of mouth for your company. By actively establishing connections, we have attracted many other businesses to come into partnership with us. Additionally, it has improved public perception of our business. We easily attract potential clients as well as employees. During today’s labor shortage, I have not had much trouble attracting talented employees to apply for the job positions in my organization.
My business is active on LinkedIn and posts regularly. We engage with other businesses as well and comment on or like their posts. This allows them to recognize my business and explore our profile. I also post job advertisements and progress reports of my business to build trust.
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Calloway Cook
Title: President
Company: Illuminate Labs
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calloway-cook/
Lunchclub is a free online networking platform that connects people with similar interests for a quick call. I’ve met many successful people on Lunchclub, from other entrepreneurs to investors to mentors, and I stay in touch with several of them. After every Lunchclub call, assuming the call goes well, I recommend adding that person on LinkedIn to grow your network.
One of the benefits of Lunchclub compared to in-person networking is the time efficiency. I can schedule a 30 minute Lunchclub call between working hours, while an in-person event would take hours out of my day (and typically cost money).
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Erika Finn
Title: Publisher
Company: Stacking Acorns
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/82858383/admin/
I’ve been in the real estate business for a while now, and I can say without a doubt that networking has played a big role in my success. When I first started out, I made it a point to attend every industry event I could find. Networking events can be a great way to meet new people, learn about new trends, and get advice from more experienced professionals.
These days, I’m focusing on growing my network online. I’ve joined several real estate groups on social media, and I’m always looking for opportunities to connect with other professionals online. Recently, I connected with a broker who was looking for someone to help him expand his business into my area. Thanks to my strong network, I was able to connect with him easily and secure the deal.
Networking is key in this industry, so make sure you’re doing everything you can to grow your network!
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Rajesh Namase
Title: Co-Founder and Professional Tech Blogger
Company: TechRT
Linkedin: https://in.linkedin.com/in/namaserajesh
Networking is a skill that takes time to develop. You have to learn how to build relationships with people and gain trust before you can start building your network. When starting out, focus on building relationships with people who already have influence over others. If you want to get ahead, then you need to make friends with those who hold power.
a) It is important to have a goal but it is better to have a noble cause. Don’t just go after networking opportunities; instead, look for ways to help others. People don’t care about what you know until they know that you care. Always be willing to give back. Help someone else succeed and you’ll find yourself being helped in return.
b) Be proactive in your approach to networking. Make sure that you’re always looking for ways to connect with people.
c) Go where the action is. Find out where the influencers hang out and join them.
d) Start small. Focus on meeting one person at a time then gradually increase the number exponentially.
e) Join groups. Get involved. There’s no point in going it alone. Participate in local community activities and volunteer work.
g) Stay humble. No matter how much success you achieve, never lose sight of where you came from.
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Camille Weston
Title: Founder
Company: Nona Rose Agency
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camilleweston/
I’ve always heard the phrase, “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know,” my whole life, especially when I was attending college and studying entrepreneurship. However, through my professional experience, I’d decided that it’s much more what you know multiplied by who you know. So, if you have a dream, get networking! And, if you have a network, get good at something! Because expertise is nothing without a network and a network is nothing if you don’t have something to contribute.
My best networking advice is to talk to everyone! Ask everyone you meet questions about themselves. And, always get a way to contact them again! My personal favorite is following them on social media. It’s simple but effective. Networking is like dating, you always send a follow-up text if the date went well, so, if you met someone and you want to keep them in your network, send a follow-up DM! Networking is about building lasting friendships.
One of my favorite networking experiences was when I met one of my clients while I was washing her feet. You heard that right. Washing her feet. You know the spas where fish eat the dead skin off your feet? Yep, I used to work at said fish spa and one of the workers called in sick and asked me out of desperation to come in and fill her shift. I didn’t even work there anymore, but I had a free evening and headed into work for a few hours thinking, “why not?”
During my shift I met a lady and her husband. While I was washing their feet, I struck up a conversation and began asking them questions about their lives. Fast forward a few minutes later and I closed a deal with her on the spot! She had just started an online business and was looking for a service just like mine to help them gain traction. Since then, I’ve gained multiple clients through referral from her and earned thousands in revenue. Let it be known, you can meet powerful members of your network everywhere and you might just find yourself washing their feet!
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Lemuel Jovellar
Title: Founder | Lead of Leads (LoL)
Company: Amplify Media Advertisement Marketing
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lemueljovellar/
I’d like to share my perspective in the query you’ve posted on HARO.
I hope you’d be interested to know the point of view of someone who’s worth about US$1M from about 15,000 miles away from where you are.
First up, I’m not really a fan of the “your net worth is based on who you know”. I grew up in the streets and grew up with out of school youth (naturally adults in their 40s now) so my network consists of a couple of billionaires (in Philippine Peso) along with convicted criminals some in the death row in fact.
If we are to average the net worth of my friends, I doubt we’d get anywhere to a $1M at all.
More importantly, I feel this mentality is going to cause social issues that’s why we’re seeing more people being neglected as many of us only see others through their perceived net worth.
Moving on, I grew my network “naturally” – something I hope your introvert readers will find inspiration.
I consider myself a “selective introvert”, a term I actually coined in the urban dictionary, so I’m not one of those who actively go out to meet people.
In fact, had their been no internet, I highly doubt I’d be able to meet a lot of the people I know now and get anywhere near where I am today.
When I say naturally, this means I join social media groups that are of interest to me (entrepreneurship, internet marketing, gaming, etc.). These online based groups from time to time will host meet-ups and that’s how I get to meet many of my network online.
Second, I am very strategic with my social media usage. I try to post things that are professional interesting to me and doing this attracts like minded individuals.
From time to time, I also reach out to people in social media if they are doing something that aligns with the causes that I’m actively promoting.
Lastly, I try my best always make every professional/business engagement a win-win. This is probably one of the biggest reasons one of my ventures, a performance advertising agency has survived for more than 14 years now in such a competitive space specially since we get most of our clients from Upwork and this freelance marketplace hosts millions of other freelancers/agencies in our industry from around the globe.
That’s it from my side of the world, I hope you at least enjoyed what I’ve shared.
If you need more from my end please don’t hesitate to get back to me anytime.
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Amit Gami
Title: Managing Director
Company: Heat Pump Chooser
Linkedin: NA
Provide value to gain trust
Business relationships are about exchanging benefits. If you can give something out to others, you can gain some from them. Hence, one of the best ways to build relationships and connections is to offer value to the people around you, may it be your customers, business partners, or acquaintances in the industry. Through this initiative, you can widen your network and pursue good terms with everyone, which you can expect to help you when you need them.
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Megan Ayala
Title: Founder
Company: Patricia And Carolyn
Linkedin: /
I am currently in the process of expanding my company’s operations. For this reason, the work is also in progress to strategically build-up my professional network. Using social media has proven to be the most effective and easiest strategy for me. Optimizing my social media profiles has proven beneficial for my networking efforts. Furthermore, I have joined LinkedIn and Facebook groups, where I thoroughly participate in discussions. On top of that, when you provide group members with useful advice, they’ll think of you as someone who should be a part of their network.
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John Keating
Title: Founder
Company: Dark Horse
Linkedin: John Keating
The strategy is to position around people of larger networks. Using footfall as an example, position yourself down the road from a leading brand or outlet and stand on their shoulders. This will save yourself huge amounts of time and research as it’s already been done.
In terms of online networking, this would involve engaging with large follower business persons and being seen as a similar authority and adding additional value to the content they are putting out. It’s a bit guerrilla in nature but effective
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James Bellis
Title: Founder
Company: Balance Coffee and Eating in London
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesbellis90/
James Bellis is an entrepreneur and proud founder of Eating in London and Balance Coffee UK. What started off as passion projects have now turned into thriving businesses with traction of 23,000 followers, by unlocking the power of networking.
Here are a few strategies that James has leaned on to boost networking gains and remain super connected with his community.
1. In-person networking:
Humans are social animals and we are basically wired to make physical connections. Luckily, James has always been a natural social butterfly so it came easy to him.
However, for those who aren’t naturally sociable, it’s recommended that they grab any chance they get to bond over common interests. Remember, the point is to create a genuine networking connection.
During the launch of James’s first business ‘Balance Coffee’ a UK-based specialty coffee brand, he was able to fall back on a well-established network within the coffee industry that he’s spent years building.
He wouldn’t have been able to put suppliers in place so quickly during COVID-19 without this network which was critical for the success of the venture.
2. Helping and connecting others:
Trust is an integral part of any relationship and is created by fulfilling commitments and generating value. Simple things like doing what you say you’ll do is always a good benchmark.
One simple strategy that works wonders is to introduce contacts to one other with no benefit to you but to create value for them.
3. Digital Networking:
James believes that we live in an incredibly digital world, and there’s no escaping the fact that in 2022 and beyond, you need a solid digital presence.
Using digital platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok to create a personal brand is a sure-fire way to reach more people and forge online connections. James is an active social media user and regularly shares meaningful content with his connections.
4. Create a business or platform that offers value to everyone:
In 2021, in the heart of Lockdown, James decided to build Eating in London, which acts as the connective tissue between consumers, restaurants, and online food & drink brands.
Through this strategy, it’s impossible not to create a wide network because you’re essentially the connective tissue between thousands of people and generating value through meaningful content.
Below are some quick links to Balance Coffee’s assets should you require them.
https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1BsL5eETH14Ef-DqHCdgQ-ryCaFIuvP3U
https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/18bC6aLyWBNpp-yhJJfk9Wh5QLoPGx0tS
https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1wuY2MizanfPI4q4gwVU6Cvbygc_9Yk6l
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Shaun Martin
Title: CEO, Founder
Company: Cash for houses
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-martin-41b01b1a6
Establish your credibility:
Spreading the word about your company is the first step in forming a network. The golden rule of networking is to “get online” to jumpstart your career. You may increase your recognition and enlarge your circle of contacts by making use of widely used social media sites. Join groups related to your field and make connections, especially on Facebook and LinkedIn. That’s what I do. I attend networking events, whether online or offline, and maintain consistent, timely communication with my contacts; I inform them of recent accomplishments, honors, and business insights. These are the proven techniques to expand your network.
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Cole South
Title: Cofounder at Synchronize Company
Company: Synchronize
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cole-south-24731441/
Any business requires proper planning and adequate skills to affirm itself and validate its worth in the market. Once your business is established, it doesn’t mean your work is over as there are countless enterprises present or are in the operation of the edifice to vie with you for the position. In that case, you need to grow your network.
To grow your network, you need to establish a rapport with the right people. You meet a lot of varied categories of clients during a meeting or business trips. You need to identify the right people who can consider being a boon to your business and make them your closest alliance to further boost your reputation and accentuate your connection sphere. Try to leave a long-lasting impression and heightened opinion on partners beneficial to your career to maintain an optimistic and competent relationship for a long time.
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Thomas Niemczewski
Title: CEO and Founder
Company: Dream Chasers
Linkedin:
One of the best ways to grow your network is by using LinkedIn. LinkedIn is a professional networking site that allows you to connect with other professionals in your industry. You can join groups, post questions and answer others’ questions. There are many ways to grow your network on LinkedIn such as joining relevant groups and participating in discussions and sharing content from other people as well as your own content. You can get in touch with these people. You can send them an email or even a regular postcard in the mail. The key here is not just getting their attention but also making them feel special and wanted so they will want more contact from you in the future.
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Richard Mews
Title: CEO / Founder
Company: Sell With Richard
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardmews
Engaging In My Local Community.
As a real estate developer, I am just as efficient as the individuals I work with. Aside from working and collaborating internally with my team of experts, I depend on the connections I’ve made with people and businesses in my local community. I form relationships and grow my network by joining networking groups in my community and charitable boards in my area.
Once, when I had to develop a new property fast, I depended heavily on my relationship with an expert contractor and architect to complete the project. Establishing connections with an architect acquainted with local zoning regulations has led to the sustainability of my business over the years. One of the best ways I effectively accomplish projects is by strengthening ties with a contractor and architect I can rely on.
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Dan Close
Title: Founder & CEO
Company: We Buy Houses in Kentucky
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/closedaniel/
Take part in online events.
Industry gatherings provide a chance to expand your knowledge and skill set when it comes to professional networking techniques. In order to reduce travel expenses, many conferences now provide virtual solutions that let professionals engage from a distance. The best way to take advantage of these chances is to choose three to five virtual conferences or training sessions you’d want to attend each year, then set up a meeting with your manager to discuss your request and get clearance.
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Steve Pogson
Title: Founder & E-commerce Strategy Lead
Company: FirstPier
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevepogson/
Put quality before quantity.
Even though it can be tempting to try to connect with everyone you meet, it’s often the deeper connections that end up being fruitful, so it can be best to focus your time on investing in a small number of people. Be deliberate about connecting with the correct people if you want to strengthen your current relationships. You can connect with people who can benefit your professional network by joining groups on the Bear Down Network that connect you to people who share your interests in education and career.
Don’t wait until you are in need to get in touch with someone you’ve connected with, either. Before meeting with a coworker, do some research to give your conversation more depth. Make an effort to keep the conversation interesting for the other person by learning about what they have been up to at work or in the neighborhood.
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Max Whiteside
Title: SEO & Content Lead
Company: Breaking Muscle
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxwhiteside/
Discover common ground online.
Knowing you have a common background in higher education can make it simpler to start a conversation in online forums like the Bear Down Network. Utilize the network’s Make Connections tool to search for suitable mentors by job function, geography, and industry. You don’t have to worry about catching someone off guard when you reach out because the mentors who are available have previously stated that they are willing to assist.
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