The Power of Networking and Relationship Building
There is room for us all at the top. Networking, the right way, proves our success is multiplied when we surround ourselves with partners.
Networking the Right Way, to Grow Your Business
In college, the most important skill I learned was how to confidently enter a room, introduce myself, and generically network (hi, I’m Maggie and I do X. Can I have your business card?). At Delta, I grew into my adult self and successfully determined how to “authentically network” by introducing myself and carrying on a conversation that was unique to my personality, felt comfortable, and was built on genuine interest.
By the time I left corporate America, I had witnessed hundreds of examples in which relationship building altered results and lives. What I saw: the most successful, respected, and innovative leaders were the ones inviting partnerships and relationship building into their communities. They harnessed the power of “we” and not “me.”
Relationships, and Partnerships, Drive Tangible Results
Networking isn’t a one-time event or one-way street. It’s a living, evolving relationship with others that builds and sustains business. I've witnessed first hand the beauty and profit-driven results yielded from the “right” type of networking.
Within the past year, I’ve seen:
New careers formed and blossomed, driven by relationship building and networking.
Innovative programs implemented, formed after introducing once-strangers who shared common goals.
Small business owners saved much needed cash by bartering services / products.
Companies we worked with reduced costs, through sharing rental space with other businesses or combined supply chain purchasing.
International joint venture adversaries saw peace & profitability, as they came together to build more meaning for their most important assets: their customers.
There is power in building relationships beyond the simple networking. Relationship building can drive results & success.
Local Union Networking Tips
Network to build relationships, not purely to network. Networking isn’t just about helping yourself - it’s also about helping others (just like your personal relationships). Work towards creating “win-win relationship” with every interaction.
Be yourself. People want to get to know you (and your business) and not a robot, fake version. Within the first few minutes of a conversation, the person you’re talking to biologically (& statistically) focuses WAY more on your body language and vocal tone than the words you say. So help yourself out: speaking your truth (instead of a script) provides authentic connection, while allowing your physical body to relax.
Be intentional. Local Union loves that word for a reason. Be intentional about where you network and whom you speak to. Know your two takeaways, including 1) what main points you want to learn about the other person, and 2) what you want them to know about you and your business.
Be more interested than interesting.
Connect others. I’m known around my circle for introductions. I make it a point to understand goals of all my connections and then hook them up with others in my network who would benefit. The more you can connect people and ideas, the more agency and influence you will have in the long run.
Focus on the right people but remain open. You won’t connect with everyone, nor will everyone connect with you. Focus on the people who represent you / your business values but leave room for flexibility. You never know when someone with a different industry or perspective might change your world.
Redefine what Networking Means
Every day is a chance to build relationships. Networking is more than an event, it’s the constant engagement of connections that fuel our life. Define what success means for you and go have some fun.
Need Help Developing your Networking Skills?
If you’re looking to improve your networking skills, our Coaching & Development sessions might be helpful. We schedule monthly “check-ins,” with exercises & mini-courses, to hit your development goals. Learn more here.