Have you ever looked at certain people and wondered how they consistently get incredible results from networking, while your own efforts feel hit-or-miss? After watching countless entrepreneurs over the years, I’ve noticed a pattern. For the most successful ones, networking isn't just another task on their to-do list—it's woven into the very fabric of their business. It's less of an activity and more of an attitude.
Networking often gets a bad rap. Many people see it as just another sales channel—a place to pitch your services, collect cards, and hopefully land a client. But if that’s all you’re using it for, you’re missing the bigger picture. Real networking is about more than just a quick sale; it’s a powerful tool for growing your entire business, and it requires a different kind of thinking. It’s about taking your networking activities and seeing them as more than just a marketing tactic.
The opportunities to connect with people have never been more abundant, both in-person and online. Not too long ago, networking was an event you put on your calendar, maybe once a week. Outside of the occasional social gathering, your ability to connect was mostly confined to being in the same room as other professionals. But that's completely changed. Today, networking is a constant. It’s less of an activity and more of an attitude.
Back in the mid-90s, the internet felt like a collection of digital clubhouses called bulletin boards. They were the original social media, places where you could find people who were into the same niche things you were, whether it was a specific TV show or fixing your own appliances. Fast forward to today, and that same spirit lives on in online forums.
They say talk is cheap, but the chance to share your passion and expertise with a supportive audience is priceless. When you’re building a , getting in front of your networking group for a ten-minute presentation is one of the biggest opportunities you’ll get—mostly because so many people are afraid to do it.
You’ve heard their 60-second pitch. You’ve glanced at their website. But let’s be honest—you don’t really know what someone in your networking group does, let alone who they are. To truly understand, you need to go a little deeper, and that’s where the one-on-one meeting comes in. It’s your chance to move beyond the business card and build a real relationship. This is a critical skill for anyone looking to build a successful .
If you’ve ever been to a networking event, you know the moment. One by one, people stand up to give a brief introduction of themselves and their business. If the thought of this “introductions round” makes your stomach do a little flip, you’re in good company. Researchers estimate that 75% of people have a fear of public speaking at some point. It’s a completely normal feeling, even for seasoned professionals.
Walking into a room full of strangers can be nerve-wracking, especially at those unstructured "open networking" events. Many of us find them intimidating, but with a little preparation, you can learn to navigate them effectively and build valuable new connections for your business.
If you’re about to walk into your first networking meeting, this is for you. I’m going to cover everything you need to think about before you even leave the house. But even if you’re a seasoned pro, stick around. You might pick up a new strategy or just get a fresh dose of motivation for getting out there. When you’re , making these events count is crucial.