Turning Your Network into Your Net Worth

Very early on in business and life, we are taught that developing a strong network is crucial for success. We go to networking events, hand out business cards, give elevator pitches about what we do, and connect with people on social media and professional networking sites. However, the key to building a network that will actually benefit you is not just to meet people or follow them online, but to truly connect with them.

Business author and speaker Susan RoAne said, “It’s not what you know or who you know, but who knows you.” It is great to know other people, but you don’t want the relationship to be one-sided. You want them to know you back. Your network is only as valuable as the connection is strong. I have met a lot of people in my life, but if they don’t remember me, they won’t be able to help me expand my reach. I want people to know who I am as a person, not just what my name is and what I do for work. This requires us to go beyond surface level networking.

When I meet new people, I ask them questions about themselves first  rather than starting off with telling them about myself, and I make sure that I remember their name and use it in conversation. This makes them feel heard and seen. Then, when it is time to talk about myself, I describe why I am passionate about what I do and explain the value that I aim to deliver in my work.

Networking should not sound like you’re reading your resume to each person you meet, nor should it feel transactional. It should be an authentic conversation that allows you to get to know one another and create mutual value. You should never go into the conversation seeking out how they can benefit you. Instead, focus on connecting with them, learning about what they care about, and see where the conversation takes you.

It is also important to remember that not everyone is the ideal customer for you, but that doesn’t mean that the connection wouldn’t provide value. How you present yourself in your interactions with others, like taking a genuine interest in them, can lead to your organic growth (or your organic downfall) because people will talk about you. Give them something positive to talk about.

Your network can become your net worth if you build strong professional relationships and are very intentional about providing value to others. Focus less on how many connections you have and more on the strength of those connections. Not only does this naturally expand your reach, but it also builds trust, credibility, and meaningful impact.

-Meghan Slaughter