Conventional networking methods often fall short. We either lack the time to discover meaningful connections or we walk away from a networking gathering with a pile of business cards, yet no substantial relationships are forged. Here are 8 innovative approaches to cultivate a robust network:
1. Put in the effort.
No mystical being will magically provide you with trustworthy, valuable contacts instantly. I often say, “You can achieve quick wealth, but true wealth takes time.” A solid network is a form of wealth. Building a substantial and meaningful network won’t happen overnight. However, you can accelerate the process by participating in the right events.
The inspiration behind creating the 10X Growth Con, a large networking event tailored for entrepreneurs, was to unite individuals with similar mindsets. Simply showing up at an event won’t automatically grant you a network. You have to put in the effort: reach out, engage, and hone your sales skills. The right event can rapidly expand your network, and you can strengthen your connections by consistently following up and keeping in contact.
—Grant Cardone, renowned sales expert who has established a multi-billion dollar real estate enterprise and New York Times bestselling author of Be Obsessed or Be Average.
2. Evolve into your ideal self.
Begin by defining the type of person you’d like to associate with based on values, character, and principles.
Next, embody that person yourself. We tend to attract individuals who resonate with our own character. To have your desired network, first, evolve into the person you want to attract. Invest more effort into self-improvement than your work. Life isn’t about what you acquire; it’s about your personal evolution. When networking, shift the focus from What can I gain? to who you are becoming.
Finally, connect with individuals who share your interests through various channels. The best approach is to enhance your social media presence while diligently working on becoming the kind of person you wish to attract. As you become more aligned and expand your online community, you’ll draw exceptional individuals suitable for lasting business partnerships. You’ll find yourself as the right person in the right circumstances with the ideal network.
—Brian Klock, founder of Financial Freedom Creator.
3. Connect with unfamiliar faces.
One of the simplest methods I employed to meet new individuals was inviting strangers to lunch or dinner when I had limited resources.
In 2015, I took this approach weekly and connected with eight new people during a group dinner. These gatherings created an incredible network that contributed to nearly a million dollars in revenue—without any advertising costs.
Through these dinners, I gained a deeper understanding of people than I could through any other networking strategy I knew. Plus, it’s remarkably budget-friendly.
—Scott Oldford, founder of INFINITUS, specializing in helping six-figure businesses grow to seven figures through online marketing.
4. Contribute rather than extract.
I strive to offer value to everyone in my network without expecting anything in return. In the formative stages of a new relationship, it’s crucial to establish genuine rapport. The best approach to do this is by providing immense value upfront.
I’ll send cold emails to my role models, sharing tips on how they can increase sales. I’ll introduce them to people who can assist them. I’m transparent about my business strategies and encourage them to implement similar tactics, all while requesting nothing in exchange. This approach captures attention wonderfully. Those same individuals often get motivated to help me in return. By following this approach, I’ve built a network filled with successful peers and mentors, ultimately leading to the establishment of a million-dollar business.
— James Swanwick, entrepreneur, author, and co-founder of Swanwick Sleep and the 30-Day No Alcohol Challenge.
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5. Facilitate a transformative introduction.
My entire perspective shifted when I realized that networking isn’t solely about expanding my database; it’s about being the bridge to another beneficial relationship. Whenever I meet someone new, I’ve conditioned myself to consider, Whom can I connect this person with that could positively impact their life?
This approach transcends the mere tallying of favors, instead fostering deeper personal connections, which are pivotal to an exceptional network. So, ask yourself, What introduction may I provide that could significantly alter someone’s life?
—Sharran Srivatsaa, angel investor, CEO of Srilo Capital and leader of Teles Properties in a remarkable growth phase.
6. Nurture your personal network portfolio.
Since your network dictates your net worth, treat it like a financial investment portfolio. This means it’s vital to eliminate toxic individuals. Forming a positive relationship with a negative person is futile. A strong network should resemble blue-chip stocks that offer continuous growth and dividends.
There’s no need to keep score. Be ready to invest genuinely. Contribute to your relationships first, and earnestly. Involve families and host events at your home. The chance to cultivate true depth in a relationship is invaluable and cannot be replicated through endless meetings. A prime example is our partnership with Amazon. We invested time to understand their evolving priorities and outcomes needed to engage us. We established shared aspirations and created a successful initial event focused on their new initiative.
—Joe Kakaty, former president of Poker Central.
7. Approach connections as you would neighbors.
Prior to the 1980s, communities were often close-knit, and knowing your neighbors was commonplace. Each individual was expected to contribute to the success of their community. However, this idea has faded as social networks have transformed communication. We often become competitive, revealing only select facets of our lives—particularly our successes.
I cultivate my connections by treating them as neighbors. By being genuine, they tend to reciprocate. This approach has benefited me in all facets of life and business, allowing me to build a community that fulfills all my connection needs. The essential part is to provide assistance before soliciting help. For instance, Ryan Foland is a master of TEDx Talks. Before he guided me on this topic, I offered him a strategy that could boost his business revenue and volunteered to help implement it. That’s the essence of how communities thrive.
—Sweta Patel, startup marketing consultant and founder of Silicon Valley Startup Marketing, having consulted for over 200 early-stage startups and growth-oriented businesses.
8. Give back to the community.
For me, donning a name tag and mingling at networking functions feels akin to the anxiety of public speaking classes in high school. It’s daunting, and I often feel like a predatory salesman. If you’re not someone who thrives in traditional networking scenarios, consider my alternative method. Everyone is interconnected, and it’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to your community.
Engage actively. I coach my son’s soccer and little league teams. I’ve donated a complimentary landscape design for a charity auction. I offer assistance to clients with their causes.
Avoid merely donating money or attending formal fundraisers. Get your hands dirty and actively serve. Word-of-mouth will spread your efforts far and wide.
—Steve Griggs, founder and CEO of Steve Griggs Design, New York City’s premier landscape designer transforming outdoor spaces into serene retreats.
