Grow by networking

Hunt For Greatness

Milton Kamwendo

NO ONE succeeds alone.

A popular saying goes: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

Connectedness inspires and accelerates your growth.

From the ancient tribes that hunted together to the global corporations, connectedness has always been a critical element of growth and success. To grow, you must master the art of networking. You build, nurture and leverage connections. This expands your influence, knowledge and impact.

Greatness arises from people connecting with others.

Networking is not just about exchanging business cards. It is not just adding connections on social media. It is work. It is about creating real relationships. It is about providing mutual support. It is about promoting and supporting the growth and success of others.

Networking is shared growth.

Growth multiplier

Networking gives you access to knowledge and resources. Networking exposes you to new ideas, insights and perspectives. It allows you to tap into the collective wisdom of others who have walked similar paths or faced similar challenges.

In “Think and Grow Rich”, Napoleon Hill underlines the power of the mastermind principle. This is the idea that when two or more people come together to share knowledge, they create a third more Powerful Mind.

Hill wrote: “No individual may have great power without availing himself of the Mastermind.”

When you network, you expand your access to expert knowledge and solutions.

You also discover opportunities that you might never discover alone.

Networking is a growth catalyst.

Opportunity flow

Opportunities are like electricity; they need a conductor.

Opportunities come through relationships.

People refer, recommend and promote those they know, like and trust.

Networking helps you stay top of the mind when opportunities arise.

Research by the Harvard Business Review found that 85 percent of job openings are filled through networking. This means your next breakthrough is likely one connection away.

Personal board

Your network can become your personal board of advisers. This is a diverse group of people who provide guidance, accountability and encouragement. This board can include mentors, coaches, peers and even junior colleagues who see the world differently.

Keep watching out for people who inspire you and light a fire in you. These relationships provide critical feedback, encouragement and perspective.

Numbers power

Networking makes you part of something bigger than yourself. It amplifies your voice. It multiplies your influence.

Like the redwood trees of California, whose roots intertwine for support, networks create strength through connection. Alone, you are vulnerable; together, you are unshakeable — numbers give you power to grow.

Practical networking

Networking is not just net-sitting, net-talking or net-thinking.

There are some practical ways you can engage in to grow through networking.

Be intentional: Networking should not be random. Be strategic about the people you connect with. Build relationships with those who inspire you. Cultivate relationships with those who challenge you.

Connect with those who expand your horizons. Join professional associations, industry groups and networks in your field. Cultivate your growth intentionally. Be obsessed with your growth or become average.

Be a giver, not a taker: Effective networking is not just about what you can get. It is more about what you can give. Add value to your network. Share insights. Make introductions. Celebrate others’ successes. Help others to succeed. When you give first, you build a reservoir of goodwill that returns in multiplied ways. As you plant, so you will reap.

Develop a plan: Follow a plan. It does not need to be complicated. You could, for instance, have —

1. Monthly goal: Meet at least one new person in your industry.
2. Quarterly goal: Attend a conference or seminar to expand your network.
3. Annual goal: Join a mastermind group or industry association.

Plan to invest in networking and be intentional. It is work; worthwhile work.

4. Cultivate anti-network: Just as an anti-library keeps you humble and hungry, an anti-network keeps you curious and connected to new, unfamiliar perspectives.

An “anti-network” is made up of people who are not yet in your network whom you would like to meet or connect with.

These are people outside your current circles who offer fresh insights and diverse viewpoints.

As you grow your network, also expand your anti-network. Keep stretching your sights and finding new connections.

Connected and consistent: Networking is a long-term investment.

Follow up with your connections. Send a message of appreciation. Share relevant articles. Check in from time to time. Consistency builds trust.

Digital networking: Leverage social media groups and platforms. Participate in professional forums to expand your reach. Share your thoughts. Engage in discussions. Join virtual communities. Be visible. Be valuable. Blog and share insights. Be vocal and engaged. Keep top of the mind.

Fear is the enemy of networking. Start small. Approach people with genuine curiosity. Have a spirit of collaboration. Every connection you make today is a seed for tomorrow’s opportunities.

Connect others. Be the bridge that introduces two people who can benefit from knowing each other. This positions you as a trusted connector, increases your influence and creates a positive feedback loop.

Sociologist Mark Granovetter writes about the power of weak ties.

These are connections outside your immediate circle. These are often more powerful for career growth than close relationships.

This is because weak ties provide access to new information and different networks.

Network value

Your network is your net worth.

It is a force multiplier. It is a safety net. It is your growth engine. It determines your access to opportunities and influence.

Your network determines the speed at which you grow.

Everywhere you go, build relationships.

Build relationships up with mentors and leaders. Build relationships down with junior colleagues and mentees.

Build relationships across with peers and counterparts. This three-dimensional networking strategy will keep you balanced, supported and growing in every season.

Start building your network.

Nurture your connections.

Watch your influence and impact expand.

It is not just what you know or whom you know; it is who knows you and what they say about you that defines your greatness.

Committed to your greatness.

Milton Kamwendo is a leading international transformational and motivational speaker, author and accomplished workshop facilitator. He is a cutting-edge strategy, team-building and organisation development facilitator and consultant. His life purpose is to inspire and promote greatness. He can be reached at: [email protected] WhatsApp: +263772422634.