If you follow me on social media, you know I was traveling last week—and managed to get myself sick.
Today was my first day out of the house in three days.
Last week, we talked about Word of Mouth (WOM) marketing. This week, we’re diving into another essential skill:
Networking.
It’s the skill that helps you:
• Exit your 9-to-5.
• Start and grow a business.
• Navigate everyday life like a pro.
This one skill is the proverbial “two birds, one stone.”
So, what is networking—really?
When I started working 25 years ago (yes, I know, I’m GenX and proud), I used to think networking success meant collecting as many business cards as possible. How naïve that was.
Networking isn’t just swapping cards or LinkedIn requests.
It’s about building genuine relationships – ones that drive trust, referrals, and word-of-mouth marketing.
Done right, networking opens doors you didn’t even know existed.
And yes, it helps to channel a little Ted Lasso while you’re at it.
As Ted says: “Be curious, not judgmental.”
Here are 7 smarter ways to network like a pro:
1. Build Meaningful Relationships
“Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities.” – Michele Jennae
Think of networking as relationship-building, not transactional. Strong, meaningful connections are built when you find common ground and invest in others’ success.
Focus on engaging with people who inspire you, challenge your thinking, and align with your goals. These are the connections that drive trust and referrals.
2. Be a Giver, Not a Taker
“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of another.” – Amelia Earhart
The fastest way to stand out in someone’s mind? Help them.
Instead of asking, “What can I gain here?” try, “What value can I add?” Whether it’s sharing resources, solving a problem, or making a thoughtful introduction, generosity leaves a lasting impression.
3. Show Your Receipts
“You can have everything in life you want if you will just help other people get what they want.” – Zig Ziglar
Your reputation is your greatest asset. Testimonials, client success stories, and social proof are invaluable in showing the impact of your work.
When someone endorses you publicly, amplify it. Let your wins do the talking and trust will follow.
4. Quality Connections Outweigh Quantity
“Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher.” – Oprah Winfrey
It’s not about how many people you know – it’s about who you know and how well you know them.
Fewer, deeper relationships will bring far more value than dozens of surface-level connections.
5. Consistency Builds Trust
“Success doesn’t come from what you do occasionally. It comes from what you do consistently.” – Marie Forleo
The key to successful networking? Staying visible and engaged over time.
When you show up regularly—whether through events, online interactions, or check-ins—you become someone others rely on. Trust is built through consistent effort, not one-off conversations.
6. Tell Your Story
“Marketing is no longer about the stuff that you make, but about the stories you tell.” – Seth Godin
Facts inform, but stories inspire. When you share your journey, mission, or lessons learned, people connect with you on a deeper level.
A compelling story makes you unforgettable—and fuels referrals like nothing else.
7. Ask for What You Want
“If you don’t ask, the answer is always no.” – Nora Roberts
If you’re waiting for referrals to happen on their own, you’re leaving opportunities on the table.
Be bold, be specific, and be clear: “If you know someone struggling with [specific problem], I’d love an introduction.” When you ask with confidence, people are more than willing to help.
What If You Hate Networking?
Life is about doing the uncomfortable.
As Ted says: “Taking on a challenge is a lot like riding a horse. If you’re comfortable while you’re doing it, you’re probably doing it wrong.”
Start small. Set manageable goals, like connecting with one new person a week or attending one event a month. It’s less about quantity and more about building genuine connections.
Networking is the bridge between trust and growth. It builds a tight circle of people who know you, believe in you, and want to help you succeed.
Networking for Remote Workers
Networking remotely has its challenges, but it’s far from impossible:
• Join Online Communities: Seek out LinkedIn groups, Slack channels, or industry-specific forums where you can contribute and connect.
• Host Virtual Coffees: Reach out to peers or mentors and schedule quick one-on-one Zoom calls to build rapport.
• Engage Consistently: Be active in webinars, comment on posts, and make your presence known. Your visibility in online spaces builds trust and WOM.
“The internet is becoming the town square for the global village of tomorrow.” – Bill Gates
Networking for Middle-Aged Professionals
Networking in midlife comes with unique advantages and challenges:
• Leverage Experience: Decades of industry expertise make you a valuable resource—use that to open doors and build respect.
• Mentor While You Network: Younger professionals often look for guidance. Offer your insights freely, and watch how quickly you become a trusted voice in your field.
• Seek Out Age-Aligned Spaces: Look for communities that value midlife professionals, where your perspective and experience are celebrated.
“You don’t have to be fearless, just don’t let fear stop you.” – Arianna Huffington
Final Thought:
Networking is the bridge between trust and growth. It’s not just about who you know—it’s about who knows you, believes in you, and talks about you when you’re not in the room.
As Ted Lasso would say: “Believe in yourself, and surround yourself with people who lift you higher.”
